The following can be attributed to Nancy Wang, Executive Director of Voters Not Politicians, on the legal questions surrounding petition collection tactics employed by Unlock Michigan:
As the grassroots organization of thousands of everyday Michiganders that successfully put “voters — not politicians” in charge of redistricting in our state by ballot initiative, we’re offended by the cynical and unscrupulous tactics Unlock Michigan is alleged to have taken. The work of Voters Not Politicians shows the power of the people and why direct democracy is so crucial to the health of our democracy.
Those who lie, cheat, and abuse our initiative process undermine the public trust and threaten the ability of citizens groups like VNP to legitimately petition our government, as is our right under the Michigan Constitution. They also provide ammunition to legislators who seek excuses to weaken the people’s right to engage in direct democracy.
Voters Not Politicians supports the investigation announced today to uncover any illegal conduct by Unlock Michigan or its contractors. Groups like these must be weeded out to protect the integrity of our initiative process.
Recent reports revealed a leaked interview with a trainer from a paid signature collection firm allegedly encouraging participants to undertake questionable and potentially illegal tactics to acquire signatures for the Unlock Michigan petition. Attorney General Dana Nessel today announced an investigation into these allegations.
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