Canton Township Reports Two Instances of Attempted Voter Fraud to AG’s Office

Canton Township clerk Michael Siegrist says these thwarted attempts at fraud show how secure and safe the election system is in Michigan.

The Canton Township clerk Michael Siegrist says he reported two instances of attempted voter fraud that occurred this election to the Michigan Attorney General’s office.

“What I find disheartening is that perhaps some people, they would use this as evidence of this kind of false notion of widespread voter fraud.”  — Michael Siegrist, Canton Township clerk

According to Siegrist, both instances involved a family member allegedly filling out and signing a ballot for a relative. In one instance a father allegedly filled out and signed a ballot for his daughter, who lives out of state. In the other instance, a husband allegedly filled out and signed a ballot for his wife, who lives in a nursing home.

Siegrist wants to make it clear that voter fraud did not occur. “Neither of the ballots were tabulated or counted on Election Day, because we were able to catch both instances before there was an issue,” he says.

Siegrist says these thwarted attempts at fraud show how secure and safe the election system is in Michigan.

“What I find disheartening is that perhaps some people, they would use this as evidence of this kind of false notion of widespread voter fraud,” says Siegrist.

Both individuals whose ballots were intercepted were ultimately able to successfully vote in the election. Siegrist says at least one of the accused ended up spending time in a police holding facility in Canton. 

Trusted, accurate, up-to-date

WDET is here to keep you informed on essential information, news and resources related to COVID-19.

This is a stressful, insecure time for many. So it’s more important than ever for you, our listeners and readers, who are able to donate to keep supporting WDET’s mission. Please make a gift today.

Donate today »

Author

  • Laura Herberg
    Laura Herberg is a Reporter for 101.9 WDET, telling the stories about people inhabiting the Detroit region and the issues that affect us here.