Common Cause Michigan Issues Statement After FBI Arrest of GOP Gubernatorial Candidate Ryan Kelley

This afternoon, the FBI arrested Michigan gubernatorial candidate Ryan Kelley in Allendale. Kelley has been charged with a misdemeanor in relation to the Jan. 6 attack at the U.S. Capitol. Kelley is alleged to have entered and engaged in disorderly conduct, as well as physical violence during the insurrection.

Earlier this morning, Michigan Democrats introduced a nine-bill package of pro-voter bills that protect the freedom to vote. The bills will help ensure Michiganders are informed about their voting rights, have options for how they cast their ballot, and provide election clerks with the tools to ensure our elections continue to run smoothly.

Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer vetoed amended versions of SB 303 and SB 304, legislation that would have made it more difficult for voters to cast a ballot on Election Day and to have their vote be counted. The bills were passed on a strictly partisan basis.

Today, the U.S. Census Bureau will release population data from the 2020 Census in an easy-to-use format for Americans who want to advocate for fair maps in this year’s redistricting cycle. The new format of the data will be made available to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico and will be key to increasing participation in the ongoing redistricting efforts.