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LANSING – Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Civil Rights Division sent notices to seven Michigan municipalities notifying them that DOJ monitors will be present at their polling places on Election Day. The letters were sent to the municipalities of Detroit, East Lansing, Flint, Grand Rapids, Hamtramck, Lansing, and Warren.
Attorney General Dana Nessel, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie issued the following statements:
"The law provides specific parameters that allow monitors, observers and challengers to witness elections at local polling places,” said Attorney General Nessel. “It’s important for residents to know that DOJ monitors are a standard part of our election process, and we anticipate they will comport with state and federal law just as they did in this year’s August Primary. But make no mistake, my office stands ready to hold accountable those who attempt to unlawfully interfere with or intimidate Michigan voters or election workers, regardless of who they may be.”
“Michigan elections are safe and secure,” said Governor Whitmer. “The presence of federal election monitors is an expected part of the process, as it has been for years. Election officials here work year-round to ensure every eligible voter can cast a ballot and the same continues to be true ahead of November 3rd. In Michigan, we will continue to protect the fundamental right to vote.”
“Michigan has hosted federal election monitors in past elections, and we know clerks are well-prepared for this process,” said Deputy Secretary Edevbie. “State and local election officials have been in regular contact with DOJ about their plans for this election. As always, we will follow the law, and we expect all monitors, observers, and challengers to do the same. Voters can cast their ballots with confidence and know that our Department remains fully prepared to protect and defend their right to vote.”
DOJ monitors are typically federal attorneys and other DOJ staff. Federal monitors have been present in Michigan for several past federal elections, including 2024. Federal law does not expressly provide for monitors so their presence at polling places is akin to any other member of the public who may observe an election as a poll watcher. Like any other poll watcher, DOJ monitors cannot speak with voters, touch election equipment or ballots, or interfere with the administration of the election.
Michigan voters are encouraged to visit mi.gov/vote to view a sample ballot, learn more about election security in Michigan, and find their (early or election day) polling location.
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