January 1, Gubernatorial Candidates Face Elimination Over Possible Signature Fraud

Multiple candidates in Michigan’s gubernatorial race could be eliminated ahead of the primary election after officials found that their campaigns had filed thousands of signatures that were fraudulent.

The state’s Bureau of Elections has formally recommended that five candidates be removed from the primary ballot. The bureau’s recommendation now goes before Michigan’s bipartisan Board of State Canvassers.

Among the five candidates are two leading contenders, former Detroit Police Chief James Craig (R) and businessman Perry Johnson (R).

John Yob, a consultant for Johnson, released a statement blaming the signature gatherers and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

“The staff of the Democrat secretary of state does not have the right to unilaterally void every signature obtained by the alleged forgers who victimized five campaigns,” Yob said.

“We strongly believe they are refusing to count thousands of signatures from legitimate voters who signed the petitions and look forward to winning this fight before the board, and if necessary, in the courts.”

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Michigan governor candidates face elimination after alleged signature fraud