In a significant legal setback, the Trump administration’s attempt to access Michigan’s detailed voter information has been thwarted once again. A federal appeals court declined to revisit a decision that previously blocked the administration’s bid for the state’s complete voter records.
The Justice Department has been pursuing access to Michigan’s qualified voter file, a comprehensive registry of individuals registered to vote. This database includes sensitive details such as voters’ names, birthdates, partial Social Security numbers, and driver’s license numbers.
Officials from the Trump administration argue that this data is crucial for ensuring compliance with federal election laws both in Michigan and other states. However, Michigan’s authorities contend that the federal move constitutes an unconstitutional overreach that could potentially intimidate voters and sow fear. Michigan’s representatives emphasized the autonomy of state and local governments in managing elections.
Earlier this year, the Trump administration faced a defeat in Michigan’s initial legal challenge, followed by another loss in the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in June. Seeking further recourse, the Justice Department requested an “en banc” hearing, hoping for a review by all active judges on the Sixth Circuit bench. However, this request was denied, as reported by Democracy Docket.
This is not an isolated occurrence; the Trump administration has consistently failed to secure access to voter registration data in several states, losing over 20 similar cases in federal courts.
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