Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson testifies before the U.S. House on safeguarding elections, highlighting the need for federal funding and bipartisan efforts to combat misinformation and threats to election security.
"As Michigan’s chief election officer, my responsibility is to ensure our elections are accessible, safe, secure, and the results are accurate," Benson stated. Highlighting the non-partisan nature of her role, she lamented the rising threats and harassment election officials face, which she attributed to the spread of false information about election security.
The Impact of Misinformation on Election Security
Benson's testimony drew attention to the dangerous impact of misinformation on public confidence in elections. "These threats are a direct result of the spread of false information about the security and accuracy of our elections," she said. She warned that unsubstantiated allegations and rhetoric, especially when lacking evidence, compromise the integrity of the electoral process by eroding public trust.
The Secretary’s remarks come at a time when election officials nationwide have faced increasing scrutiny and hostility, driven largely by baseless claims about election fraud. Benson’s call for accountability and truthfulness in public discourse underscores the need for accurate information as a foundation of democracy.
Federal Role in Election Security: A Need for Reliable Funding
Highlighting the federal government's critical role in protecting U.S. elections, Benson pointed out the threats from highly sophisticated, foreign government-aligned entities that have targeted the country’s electoral systems in recent years. "It is essential that we marshal bipartisan support and cooperative actions in response," Benson urged, stressing the necessity for a predictable, sustainable, and reliable stream of funding for election security.
She detailed the financial challenges faced by states like Michigan, which often have to cobble together funding from various sources to meet their election security needs. "We know what we need to do to ensure our elections are secure but often must scrape together funding from multiple sources to meet our needs," Benson said, highlighting the crucial need for federal support in securing personnel, upgrading voting machines, and maintaining voter registration databases.
Michigan’s Efforts to Enhance Election Security and Transparency
Michigan has been proactive in bolstering its election security infrastructure, with efforts focused on making data-driven decisions and fostering partnerships with community leaders to ensure every eligible voter can participate. Benson outlined Michigan’s initiatives to support a transparent election infrastructure, noting the state’s commitment to maintaining the accuracy of its voter registration database and engaging voters.
"In Michigan, we are working together to make data-driven decisions to preserve the integrity of our voting systems," Benson stated, emphasizing the collaborative approach her state is taking despite the politically charged environment. Michigan's initiatives are designed not just to enhance security but also to build public trust through transparency and community engagement.
A Bipartisan Approach to Protect Democracy
Benson’s testimony serves as a stark reminder that election security is a fundamental aspect of preserving democracy. By calling on both Republicans and Democrats to set aside partisan differences and work together, Benson highlighted the importance of unity in the face of threats to the democratic process.
The Secretary of State’s plea for bipartisan support resonates beyond Michigan, reflecting a national need for collective action to secure elections. Benson’s appeal underscores that safeguarding the electoral process is not about politics but about ensuring that every American’s vote counts.
Facing Challenges: Threats and Harassment of Election Officials
A recurring theme in Benson’s testimony was the personal toll on election officials, who have increasingly become targets of harassment and threats. "It is not a political role," Benson said of her position, yet she acknowledged that many election officials, regardless of their political affiliations, are facing unprecedented levels of hostility.
Benson noted that these challenges are fueled by misinformation and unfounded claims about election fraud. By speaking out, she hopes to shed light on the personal and professional risks that election officials endure, emphasizing the need for support and respect for those who are on the front lines of protecting the electoral process.
Benson noted that these challenges
As the U.S. approaches another pivotal election, Benson’s testimony is a timely call to action for federal lawmakers, state officials, and the public. Her message is clear: protecting the integrity of elections requires truth, transparency, and a commitment to collaboration across political divides. By securing reliable funding and fostering bipartisan support, Benson believes the nation can rise above the threats and ensure that every vote is counted accurately and fairly.
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