A Michigan judge challenged the Republican National Committee's attempt to invalidate overseas ballots in the battleground state. The GOP argues that the state constitution prohibits non-resident spouses and children of overseas voters from voting in Michigan. However, Court of Claims Judge Sima Patel expressed skepticism during a hearing in Detroit, questioning the GOP's interpretation of the law.
One of several GOP lawsuits targeting swing states, including those crucial for the 2024 election, aims to discard overseas and military ballots. Despite being a small portion of the electorate, former President Donald Trump and his supporters have made baseless claims about widespread fraud in overseas voting.
Michigan GOP lawyer Brandon Debus argued that individuals who have never been residents of Michigan should not be allowed to vote in the state. Judge Patel challenged this assertion, highlighting potential disenfranchisement of overseas servicepeople's children.
Lawyers representing Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, dismissed the GOP's lawsuit as frivolous and urged the judge to reject it. They emphasized the lateness of the claim, stating that the election was already underway and that raising such challenges earlier would have prevented chaos and confusion.
The ongoing hearing in Detroit has yet to conclude, with Judge Patel expected to issue a ruling at an unspecified time. The case underscores the contentious nature of election disputes and the importance of clarity in electoral laws to avoid disenfranchisement and disruption.
