Michigan Demands Answers After Antrim County Clerk Accused of Improperly Altering Voter Records

 

ANTRIM COUNTY, Mich. — State election officials are investigating whether the Antrim County clerk improperly canceled or altered voter registrations, raising new concerns about election administration in a county that has remained under intense scrutiny since the 2020 presidential election.

According to the Michigan Bureau of Elections, Clerk Victoria Bishop may have taken actions that exceeded her legal authority by issuing voter cancellation notices and modifying records in the state’s Qualified Voter File, commonly known as the QVF.

In a formal letter sent earlier this month, Bureau Director Jonathan Brater stated that the agency had received reports from voters and local officials about “concerning activity” tied to Bishop’s office. A subsequent review of the QVF revealed what officials described as “sufficient irregularities” to warrant further investigation.

Allegations of Improper Cancellations

At the center of the dispute is whether Bishop improperly targeted voters who had not participated in recent elections. State officials say evidence suggests cancellation or confirmation notices were sent to individuals who missed one or two major election cycles.

Under Michigan law, however, voter registrations cannot be canceled solely for failing to vote.

The Bureau also alleges that Bishop may have:

• Changed voter statuses in the QVF to “Cancel” or “Reject” without proper authorization

• Failed to independently verify voter information before taking action

• Acted without delegation from city or township clerks, who are legally responsible for maintaining voter rolls

State officials emphasized that county clerks do not have unilateral authority to conduct voter maintenance or directly alter registration statuses in the statewide system.

Bishop Defends “Corrective Audit”

Bishop, a Republican elected in 2024, has defended her actions, describing them as part of a “corrective audit” aimed at improving the accuracy of voter rolls.

She argues that sending notices to voters was intended to prompt verification and ensure outdated registrations—such as those belonging to deceased individuals or people who have moved—are addressed. Bishop has also said that maintaining accurate voter rolls is essential to restoring public confidence in elections.

In public statements, she has framed her actions as a response to what she describes as past administrative failures, particularly during the 2020 election cycle.

Bishop is married to Randy Bishop, a conservative talk radio personality often known as “Trucker Randy,” who has publicly promoted claims that the 2020 election was stolen.

Potential Legal Consequences

The Bureau of Elections has ordered Bishop to provide a detailed explanation of her actions, including a list of affected voters and justification for any changes made in the QVF.

Failure to comply could carry serious consequences. State officials noted that:

• Election duties could be reassigned or removed

• Violations of lawful directives may result in misdemeanor charges

Michigan has previously taken similar action against local clerks accused of violating election law, including temporarily stripping authority in high-profile cases.

Antrim County’s Ongoing Election Spotlight

This latest controversy unfolds in Antrim County, a northern Michigan community that became nationally known following the 2020 election. At that time, a reporting error briefly showed incorrect presidential results due to a tabulator update issue, which was later corrected.

Despite the correction, the incident fueled widespread claims of election fraud and placed the county at the center of ongoing political and legal debates about election integrity.

Bishop campaigned on addressing those concerns, pledging to clean up voter rolls and strengthen confidence in the system. Her election reflected continued skepticism among some voters about the accuracy of election administration.

What Comes Next

The Bureau’s investigation is ongoing, and Bishop faces a deadline to respond with documentation and explanations of her actions. The outcome could determine whether the issue remains an administrative dispute or escalates into formal legal proceedings.

As Michigan prepares for upcoming elections, the case underscores the tension between efforts to ensure voter roll accuracy and the legal safeguards designed to protect voter access.

Tom Leonard Ends Michigan Gubernatorial Bid, Citing Principles and Path Forward

 

Former state House Speaker Tom Leonard announced Thursday that he is withdrawing from the race for governor, saying the decision came after months of reflection on the direction of the campaign and the standards he was unwilling to compromise.

In a statement, Leonard said his campaign had spent the past 10 months traveling across Michigan, meeting voters, and promoting what he described as “bold, positive leadership focused on real solutions.” He credited family members, staff, and supporters for sustaining the effort, expressing gratitude for their time, energy, and encouragement.

“This wasn’t an easy decision,” Leonard said, adding that the move followed “an honest look at the path forward” as the race evolved.

Leonard emphasized that continuing in the contest would have required changes to his campaign approach and personal values, which he said he was unwilling to make. “I’m not willing to compromise who I am or how I believe this campaign should be run in order to win,” he said.

The withdrawal comes as the gubernatorial race in Michigan continues to take shape ahead of the November election, with candidates across both major parties working to consolidate support and define their platforms. Political observers note that departures at this stage can shift the dynamics of a competitive primary field.

Despite ending his bid, Leonard indicated he plans to remain active in public policy and advocacy. “While this chapter is closing, we are not going anywhere when it comes to fighting for the issues that matter,” he said.

Leonard also called for unity moving forward, urging voters and leaders to focus on shared priorities as the election approaches.

No immediate endorsement of another candidate was announced.

Michigan Democrats Nominate Eli Savit for Attorney General Amid Party Tensions

 

Eli Savit Facebook 

DETROIT MICHIGAN — Michigan Democrats on Sunday selected Eli Savit as their nominee for attorney general, choosing the Washtenaw County prosecutor over Karen McDonald at a contentious party convention in Detroit that also reflected broader political tensions within the party.

Savit’s nomination comes at a time when Democrats in Michigan and nationally have faced criticism and accusations from some opponents and commentators over alleged tolerance of antisemitic rhetoric tied to protests and divisions over U.S. policy in the Middle East. His selection, however, also underscores the complexity of those claims, as Savit himself is Jewish and has been an active figure within Democratic legal and political circles.

The endorsement was decided at the Michigan Democratic Party convention at Huntington Place, where more than 7,200 delegates gathered to vote on candidates for statewide offices ahead of the November election.

Savit will now face Republican nominee Doug Lloyd, setting up a general election contest between two longtime prosecutors with sharply different views on the role of the attorney general’s office.

“We’re on the front line right now,” Savit told delegates following his nomination. “We’re facing challenges from Washington, D.C. We’re facing challenges from the corrupting influence of money in our politics. But what you see reflected on this stage is a hopeful vision for the future.”

Lloyd criticized Savit shortly after the nomination was announced, arguing that his policies reflect a politically driven approach to prosecution.

“Michigan deserves something different,” Lloyd said. “A legal system grounded in fairness, consistency, and respect for the rule of law.”

Savit’s supporters pointed to his record as Washtenaw County prosecutor, including his stances on criminal justice reform and environmental issues. Some delegates also emphasized his independence from corporate and utility-backed funding as a key reason for their support.

The convention itself highlighted ongoing divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly around issues related to campus protests, foreign policy, and internal messaging. Critics have used those divisions to accuse Democrats of failing to adequately address antisemitism in certain activist spaces, while party leaders and many members have rejected those claims and pointed to the diversity within their ranks.

Savit’s nomination places him at the center of that broader political debate as the campaign moves into the general election phase.

In other action, Democrats also nominated Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II as their candidate for secretary of state, as the party looks to present a unified ticket in November.

Chaos and Division Mark Michigan Democratic Convention as Key Endorsements Emerge

 

DETROIT  What was intended to showcase party unity ahead of a critical election year instead exposed deep divisions within the Michigan Democratic Party, as thousands of delegates gathered in Detroit for a chaotic and at times contentious endorsement convention.

More than 7,200 delegates packed the Huntington Place convention center Sunday, a record turnout that underscored both high engagement and rising tensions within the party. By the end of a turbulent day marked by delays, boos, and internal clashes, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II secured the party’s nomination for secretary of state, while Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit won the endorsement for attorney general.

Both candidates are now expected to appear on the November ballot as the party’s official nominees.

Disruptions and Delays

The convention was plagued by logistical issues from the start. Credentialing errors delayed voting for hours, sparking frustration among delegates who shouted from the convention floor and demanded the process move forward.

Voting, originally scheduled for earlier in the day, did not begin until late afternoon. Some delegates were unable to cast ballots electronically, forcing long lines and further aggravating an already tense atmosphere.

Party Chair Curtis Hertel Jr. attempted to reassure attendees, promising that all properly registered delegates would be allowed to vote. Still, the delays contributed to a sense of disorganization that critics quickly seized upon.

Boos Signal Party Divisions

Tensions were not limited to logistics. Political divisions within the party surfaced repeatedly, most visibly during speeches.

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens was met with sustained boos during her Senate campaign remarks, highlighting a growing divide between establishment Democrats and progressive activists. Stevens attempted to calm the crowd, telling delegates, “Democrats, I love you, even when we disagree,” but the reaction underscored the challenges ahead in unifying the party.

Progressive favorite Abdul El-Sayed drew strong support from activists, with chants of his name echoing through the hall. His calls for sweeping reforms, including Medicare for All and the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, reflected the energy of the party’s left flank.

High-Stakes Endorsements

Despite the turmoil, the convention produced decisive outcomes in key races.

Gilchrist, who has served alongside Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for nearly two terms, secured the secretary of state endorsement after abandoning a gubernatorial bid earlier this year. Though he lacks direct experience overseeing elections, supporters argued he would defend voting rights and modernize state systems.

Savit’s victory over Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald came despite strong backing for McDonald from major labor unions. Savit, known for progressive reforms such as eliminating cash bail in certain cases, is expected to face scrutiny from conservatives in the general election.

Contentious Regent Race

One of the most divisive contests involved the University of Michigan Board of Regents. Civil rights attorney Amir Makled defeated incumbent Jordan Acker in a race shaped heavily by controversy over the university’s handling of pro-Palestinian protests.

The contest became a flashpoint for broader ideological battles within the party, with activists criticizing Acker while Makled faced scrutiny over past social media activity. The outcome reflected the growing influence of activist-driven issues in party politics.

A Party at a Crossroads

The convention also served as a platform for national figures, including Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, and Andy Beshear, all of whom addressed delegates ahead of potential future campaigns.

Whitmer, speaking to the crowd, acknowledged challenges at the national level and urged Democrats to remain focused on upcoming elections.

Still, the events of the weekend highlighted a party grappling with internal disagreements over policy, messaging, and leadership direction.

Looking Ahead

By the convention’s close, party leaders emphasized unity, with Gilchrist declaring, “Our unity is our strength.” But the visible fractures—ranging from ideological disputes to organizational missteps—suggest that achieving that unity may prove difficult.

With high-stakes races looming in November, the Michigan Democratic Party now faces the challenge of consolidating its base while navigating the divisions laid bare in Detroit.

Divisions deepen among Democrats in Michigan’s pivotal Senate race

 

 A closely watched U.S. Senate race in Michigan is exposing deep divisions within the Democratic Party as candidates debate ideology, electability and key policy issues ahead of the August primary.

Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive candidate aligned with the policies of Bernie Sanders, is pushing back against concerns from party leaders who fear his nomination could jeopardize Democrats’ chances in November. El-Sayed argues that bold positions — not moderation — win elections, pointing to the victories of Donald Trump as evidence.

The open Senate seat is considered critical to control of the chamber. Republicans are rallying behind former Rep. Mike Rogers, with outside groups planning major spending in the state.

Within the Democratic primary, El-Sayed faces Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. Stevens is viewed by party insiders as the most electable, while McMorrow is positioning herself as a bridge between moderates and progressives.

The race has highlighted sharp disagreements on policy. El-Sayed supports abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and backs Medicare for All, while his opponents favor more incremental reforms. Campaign financing has also become a flashpoint, with El-Sayed rejecting AIPAC and corporate PAC money and criticizing his rivals for accepting it.

Tensions have escalated as candidates question each other’s consistency and leadership. El-Sayed has accused party leaders of lacking “courage,” while McMorrow has countered that his campaign relies more on rhetoric than practical solutions.

Foreign policy — particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict — has emerged as one of the most divisive issues. El-Sayed has been sharply critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza and U.S. support for the country. Stevens has rejected claims that Israel’s actions constitute genocide, while McMorrow has expressed concern over potential war crimes and called for a resolution to the conflict.

The candidates have also clashed over campaign tactics. Stevens and McMorrow criticized El-Sayed for appearing with political commentator Hasan Piker, citing past controversial remarks. El-Sayed defended the appearances as part of engaging with diverse viewpoints.

The primary reflects a broader debate within the Democratic Party: whether to nominate a candidate who energizes the progressive base or one seen as more competitive with swing voters in a battleground state.

Some voters remain divided. While younger and more progressive voters are drawn to El-Sayed’s platform, others worry his positions could alienate moderates in a general election.

With control of the Senate potentially at stake, the outcome in Michigan could have national implications.

Streisand Effect Reshapes Michigan Senate Primary as Abdul El-Sayed Surges

 

Detroit, MI — A new Emerson College Polling survey is shaking up Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary, showing Abdul El-Sayed surging into a statistical tie for first place — a dramatic shift in a race that had looked far more settled just months ago.

According to the April poll, El-Sayed now commands 24% support, up sharply from 16% in January, putting him neck-and-neck with Mallory McMorrow, who also sits at 24%. Meanwhile, Haley Stevens has slipped to 13%, marking a notable decline in her standing.

The “Streisand Effect” in Play

The sudden rise of El-Sayed is being linked by some analysts to the Streisand effect — the idea that attempts to suppress or attack a candidate can unintentionally boost their visibility. Increased attention, whether positive or negative, appears to have expanded El-Sayed’s reach among voters who may not have previously been engaged.

Dominating Younger Voters

One of the most striking findings in the poll is El-Sayed’s overwhelming support among younger voters. Among those under 40, he leads by a wide margin:

• El-Sayed: 35%

• Nearest competitor: 18%

This 17-point advantage suggests a strong generational divide in the race, with younger voters gravitating toward his message and campaign style.

A Wide-Open Race

Despite the movement at the top, the race remains far from decided. A significant 36% of voters are still undecided, leaving ample room for shifts in momentum as the campaign progresses.

That large undecided bloc could ultimately determine whether El-Sayed’s surge is a temporary spike or the beginning of a sustained lead.

What It Means Going Forward

The numbers point to a Democratic primary that is increasingly fluid:

• El-Sayed is gaining traction and visibility

• McMorrow remains firmly competitive at the top

• Stevens faces pressure to regain lost ground

• A large share of voters are still up for grabs

With months to go, the Michigan Senate race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and closely watched primaries in the country.

Rising Waters Put Cheboygan on Edge as Dam Reaches ‘Ready’ Evacuation Phase

 

CHEBOYGAN, Mich. — A growing flood threat in Northern Michigan has pushed the Cheboygan Dam into the “Ready” phase of its emergency evacuation protocol, signaling heightened concern for residents as water levels continue to rise at a dangerous pace.

Officials confirmed early Monday morning that water behind the dam has climbed to within 12 inches of the top — a critical threshold that triggers the first stage of the region’s “Ready, Set, Go” evacuation framework. At this stage, residents living between the dam and Lake Huron are being urged to prepare for a possible evacuation.

A Situation Intensified by Weather

The surge in water levels is being driven by a combination of heavy spring rainfall and rapid snowmelt following a record-setting March snowfall. Additional rain in the forecast threatens to worsen conditions in the coming days, increasing the likelihood that the situation could escalate quickly.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has already declared a state of emergency for the area, activating Michigan’s State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response efforts and allocate resources where needed.

What “Ready” Means for Residents

Under the current “Ready” phase, authorities are not yet ordering evacuations — but they are making it clear that residents should be prepared to move at a moment’s notice. Emergency officials are advising people to:

• Pack essential items, including medications and important documents

• Secure outdoor belongings and move valuables to higher ground

• Avoid riverbanks and flood-prone areas

• Monitor official updates and alerts closely

If conditions worsen, the situation will move into the “Set” phase — when evacuation becomes more imminent — followed by the “Go” phase, which would trigger mandatory evacuations and possible road closures.

Emergency Measures Already Underway

Crews have been working around the clock to mitigate the risk. Thousands of sandbags have been deployed to control water flow, while large pumps are actively diverting water around the dam. Additionally, a timber debris screen has been removed from one of the dam’s gates to increase water capacity and relieve pressure on the structure.

As a precaution, the U.S. 23 bascule bridge in the area has been closed due to safety concerns tied to the rising water levels.

Officials Urge Calm — and Accuracy

Cheboygan County Sheriff Todd Ross has emphasized the importance of relying on verified information, warning residents not to spread rumors or misinformation about the situation. While current projections suggest limited residential impact even if water overtops the dam, officials acknowledge that certain areas — particularly parts of the west side near the river — could see localized flooding affecting businesses and nearby streets.

A Community on Alert

For now, Cheboygan remains in a tense holding pattern — not yet evacuating, but no longer in the clear. The coming days will be critical as weather conditions and water levels determine whether the situation stabilizes or escalates into a full-scale emergency.

Residents are being told to stay vigilant, stay informed, and most importantly — be ready.

Oakland County Approves Controversial Police Drone Program Amid Civil Liberties Concerns

 

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. — In a move that has ignited fierce debate across Southeast Michigan, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners voted last week to approve a controversial new drone pilot program for law enforcement—prompting immediate backlash from residents who warn of expanding government surveillance and erosion of civil liberties.

The measure passed by a 13–4 vote, clearing the way for a 9-month pilot program that will deploy drones in coordination with police and emergency response units.

A Divided Vote

Four commissioners broke ranks and voted against the program:

• Charlie Cavell

• Ann Erickson Gault

• Kristen Nelson

• Yolanda Smith Charles

They were the only members of the board to oppose the measure, signaling a clear minority stance in what has become one of the county’s most contentious public safety decisions in recent years.

“We Don’t Want to Be Watched”

Public reaction at the meeting—and in the days since—has been intense.

Residents voiced strong objections during public comment, warning that the program represents the beginning of what some described as a “mass surveillance infrastructure.”

“We don't want to be watched — the infrastructure of mass surveillance. The very idea is an appalling invasion of our privacy and our civil liberties, and it is the exact opposite of public safety,” one resident said during the hearing.

Critics argue that once such systems are in place, their use often expands beyond original intent—raising concerns about mission creep, data collection, and long-term monitoring of law-abiding citizens.

What the Program Does

County officials have framed the initiative as a limited pilot program, designed to test how drones can assist in:

• Emergency response to 911 calls

• Search and rescue operations

• Crime scene assessment

• Officer safety in high-risk situations

Supporters say the technology could reduce response times and provide real-time situational awareness without putting officers directly in harm’s way.

The Bigger Debate: Safety vs. Surveillance

The approval places Oakland County at the center of a growing national debate: where to draw the line between public safety innovation and personal privacy.

Opponents argue that aerial surveillance—especially when paired with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging, or potential facial recognition—poses serious constitutional questions, particularly under the Fourth Amendment.

Supporters counter that drones are simply another tool, no different than helicopters or body cameras, and that proper policies and oversight can prevent abuse.

What Comes Next

The drone program will now move into its pilot phase, where its use, policies, and public impact will be closely watched. Officials say the program will be evaluated before any permanent expansion is considered.

But for many residents, the vote itself is already a turning point.

The question now facing Oakland County—and potentially the rest of Michigan—is not just how drones will be used, but how much surveillance the public is willing to accept in the name of safety.

AWOL on the Campaign Trail: John James Skips Debates as Questions Mount Over Where He Really Is

 

A growing controversy is surrounding Michigan gubernatorial candidate John James after he declined to participate in multiple scheduled debates—including a high-profile forum hosted by the Oakland County Republican Party set for April 30 that is expected to be televised and broadcast across more than 30 radio stations statewide.

The absence has drawn sharp criticism from party leadership and raised broader questions about transparency, accountability, and the candidate’s campaign strategy.

Debate No-Show Draws Party Rebuke

In a public statement, Oakland County Republican Party Chair Vance Patrick expressed frustration over James’ refusal to attend the debate, noting that the event had been scheduled to meet conditions previously set by the campaign.

“It’s unfortunate that John James won’t agree to participate in our gubernatorial debate later this month,” Patrick said. “As the largest county party in the state… we were offering significant statewide exposure so Republican voters can make informed decisions this August.”

Patrick added that volunteers who had previously supported James’ campaigns were “very disappointed” by what he described as a dismissal of their efforts.

Questions Over Candidate’s Whereabouts

The controversy has intensified following claims reported by TMZ that James has been vacationing in Turks and Caicos during a period of government disruption—an allegation that, if true, could further complicate his public image as an active and engaged candidate.

James has denied the claim. However, critics argue that his response has only fueled further skepticism.

Among the concerns raised:

• A social media post showing James at the Detroit Tigers’ Opening Day game appeared to reuse an image previously posted in 2025.

• Another post depicting him at a Michigan hunting range has been questioned due to seasonal inconsistencies—specifically, visible green foliage that does not align with typical early-April conditions in the state.

Strategic Silence or Political Risk?

James’ absence from debates—and the lack of direct engagement with critics—has left a vacuum that opponents and even members of his own party are beginning to fill.

Debates are traditionally seen as a critical test of a candidate’s readiness for executive office, offering voters a chance to evaluate policy positions, temperament, and command of key

issues. Skipping such forums, particularly one with significant statewide reach, carries political risk.

At the same time, some campaigns have historically avoided debates when holding strong polling positions or seeking to limit exposure to unscripted moments.

Whether that calculation applies here remains unclear.

A Campaign Under Pressure

As the August primary approaches, the stakes are rising for all candidates in the Michigan gubernatorial race. For James, the current controversy presents a dual challenge: addressing questions about his absence while reassuring voters and party leaders of his commitment to the campaign.

For now, the central question being asked by critics—and increasingly echoed within Republican circles—is a simple one:

Why isn’t he showing up?

Until that question is answered directly, the narrative surrounding his campaign may continue to be shaped less by policy—and more by perception.

Detroit TV Shakeup: Taryn Asher Fired from Fox 2, Raising Questions About Industry Turbulence — and a Rare Husband-Wife Exit

 

The sudden firing of longtime Fox 2 Detroit anchor Taryn Asher is sending shockwaves through the local media landscape, raising broader questions about newsroom culture, management decisions, and an unusual personal twist involving her former spouse, Jason Carr.

According to her attorney, Asher was quietly terminated in November after more than a decade with Fox 2 Detroit. For months, her absence from the anchor desk went unexplained publicly, fueling speculation among viewers. Now, that silence has been broken — and it points toward a potentially contentious legal battle.

Attorney Matthew Turner said efforts to reverse the decision failed, despite months of negotiations. The situation escalated to the point where Asher’s workspace was recently cleared out, signaling a definitive end to her tenure. Legal action is now expected.

At the center of the dispute are allegations of unequal treatment. Turner claims Asher began noticing changes in assignments, scheduling, and overall treatment compared to her male counterpart following a shift in management. When those concerns were raised internally, the response, according to her legal team, was not corrective — but punitive.

Asher herself had previously acknowledged an “unexpected work-related matter” in a February social media post, thanking supporters while remaining largely silent on specifics at the time.

A Michigan State University graduate, Asher had become a familiar and trusted presence in Detroit television since joining the station in 2007. She rose through the ranks to become co-anchor in 2022, helping lead a new era following the retirement of veteran anchors Huel Perkins and Monica Gayle.

But what makes this story even more unusual is the broader personal context.

Asher’s ex-husband, Jason Carr, was also previously fired from Detroit television — a rare and notable circumstance in a tightly connected local media market. Carr, a well-known on-air personality in his own right, had his own high-profile departure, meaning both former spouses have now faced abrupt exits from prominent TV roles.

That raises an eyebrow-raising question: How often does a former husband-and-wife duo both end up fired from major local television positions?

Taryn Asher and ex-husband Jason Carr

In an industry where visibility, reputation, and continuity are everything, such dual departures are highly uncommon — and underscore just how volatile the television news business has become in recent years.

Meanwhile, Fox 2 management has remained largely silent. News Director Brooks Blanton has not publicly addressed the situation, and Asher’s profile reportedly remained on the station’s website even after her termination — adding to the confusion surrounding her status.

Now, the matter appears headed toward litigation, where more details could emerge about what exactly led to the breakdown between a longtime anchor and one of Detroit’s most prominent news stations.

For viewers, the story is more than just a personnel change. It’s a glimpse behind the scenes of an industry often perceived as polished and stable — but one that, increasingly, is anything but.

And in this case, it’s not just one career disrupted — it’s two, tied together by a shared past and an unusually parallel professional outcome.

Detroit Man Charged in Alleged Threat Against Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud

 

A Detroit man is facing criminal charges after authorities say he made threats to assassinate Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn.

According to officials, Joseph Lipani was arrested and charged with one misdemeanor count of malicious use of a telecommunications service. The charge stems from alleged threatening communications directed at Hammoud. Following his arrest, Lipani was released on a personal bond and placed under GPS monitoring as the case proceeds through the court system.

The incident has drawn renewed attention to the growing concerns over threats against public officials, particularly at the local level, where leaders are often more directly accessible to the public.

Mayor Hammoud, who made history as Dearborn’s first Arab American and Muslim mayor, addressed the situation by emphasizing resilience in the face of intimidation. He stated that this is not the first time he has received death threats during his time in public service. Despite that, Hammoud made clear he does not intend to be deterred.

“I will not back down in fear,” Hammoud said, reaffirming his commitment to continue serving the residents of Dearborn.

The case underscores a broader national pattern in which elected officials—regardless of party or position—are increasingly facing harassment and threats, often delivered through digital or telecommunications channels. Law enforcement agencies have responded by taking such threats more seriously, even when they result in misdemeanor-level charges, citing the potential for escalation.

Legal proceedings against Lipani are ongoing. If convicted, he could face penalties associated with the misuse of communication systems to issue threats.

As the situation develops, city officials and law enforcement continue to monitor for any additional risks, while Hammoud maintains his focus on governing and community leadership.

WHERE IS JOHN JAMES — AND WHY ARE REPUBLICANS LOOKING ELSEWHERE?

 

There’s a growing frustration inside Michigan’s Republican base, and it’s becoming harder to ignore: where exactly is John James — and does he actually want this job?

For months, James has run a campaign built on distance. No real debates. Limited exposure. Carefully controlled appearances. Minimal willingness to step into unscripted environments where voters — not handlers — set the tone. That might work if you’re protecting a lead. It doesn’t work when voters are still deciding whether you’ve earned their trust.

And now, that strategy is starting to backfire publicly.

At the recent Michigan Republican endorsement convention in Novi, James didn’t just receive a lukewarm reception — he was booed. Not by Democrats. Not by political opponents. By Republicans. By the very base he needs to win.

That moment cut through the polished messaging and exposed something deeper: a growing disconnect between James and the grassroots.

It gets worse.

James reportedly leads Michigan’s congressional delegation in missed House votes this session — a statistic that reinforces the perception of disengagement. Whether there are explanations or not, voters aren’t reading footnotes. They’re seeing a pattern: absence, avoidance, and a campaign that feels more managed than motivated.

Then came the optics disaster — a widely circulated image of James at a luxury beachfront resort during a congressional recess. On its own, that’s not disqualifying. But in the middle of economic uncertainty and federal instability, it feeds directly into the narrative that he’s out of touch and not fully locked in.

And politics is about narratives. Right now, his isn’t good.

While James has been playing defense, Perry Johnson has been doing the opposite — flooding the state with ads, dominating airwaves, and aggressively introducing himself to voters. Love him or hate him, Johnson is visible, active, and undeniably present.

That matters.

Republican voters aren’t just looking for a name they recognize. They’re looking for energy. Engagement. Fight. Someone who shows up — everywhere — and makes the case directly.

Johnson is doing that.

James, by contrast, is running a campaign that increasingly looks like it was designed to avoid risk rather than win a race. And in a crowded primary where momentum can shift quickly, that’s a dangerous gamble.

Because here’s the reality: voters don’t reward candidates who seem hesitant to face them. They don’t rally behind someone who appears distant, insulated, or overly managed. And they certainly don’t ignore it when that candidate gets booed in his own party’s backyard.

If John James wants to turn this around, it won’t come from another controlled event or carefully crafted message. It will require something he has so far avoided — direct, consistent, unfiltered engagement with the people he’s asking to lead.

Until then, the vacuum he’s created is being filled.

And right now, Perry Johnson is the one stepping into it.