March 9, 2010

We are excited to have secured the endorsement of Rev. Nicholas Hood III, former Detroit City Councilman! Thank you Rev. Hood for your confidence in our effort!

 March 8, 2010

Jocelyn is so proud and honored to have received the endorsement of Democracy for America today, the nation’s largest progressive political action community, representing more than 1 million members across the United States.  Check out the media release written by DFA below!

—-

 

CONTACT: Mary Rickles, 205-746-7787, mrickles@democracyforamerica.com

Democracy for America Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State

BURLINGTON, VT – Democracy for America, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, announced its endorsement of Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State.

DFA chair Jim Dean says Benson is a common sense reformer ready to make Michigan a national leader in election administration.

“Jocelyn Benson is a candidate who deserves our support early,” Dean said. “She has dedicated her life to protecting people’s right to vote — working election protection for Democrats across the country, testifying before Congress and more.”

As one of the leading election law experts and educators in the state of Michigan and a nationally recognized educator, attorney and voter advocate, Benson is dedicated to promoting access and protecting the integrity of the election process.

“Jocelyn knows what Michigan must do to become an election administration leader again — early voting, same-day voter registration and more — and she’s ready to push these common sense reforms as Secretary of State,” Dean said. “And she knows that to win she needs support on the ground across the state and she’s put together a grassroots campaign for victory.”

Democracy for America is a key endorsement in races like this one, bringing in donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect nearly 600 progressives up and down the ballot.

ABOUT DEMOCRACY FOR AMERICA
Democracy for America is our nation’s largest progressive political action community. With over one million members nationwide, DFA is a grassroots powerhouse working to change our country and the Democratic Party from the bottom-up.

 

March 7, 2010

We are proud to announce the endorsement of the Charlevoix County Democratic Party! Thanks Charlevoix Dems for your support!

 March 6, 2010

We are honored to announce two much appreciated Ingham County endorsements from State Representatives Joan Bauer and Barb Byrum! Thanks Representatives Byrum and Bauer for your continued support!

March 5, 2010

We are thrilled to announce that Jocelyn’s campaign has now received the endorsement of the 11th Congressional District Democratic Organization, which represents dems in 25 cities and townships in Wayne and Oakland Counties! Thanks for your support!  11th Congressional District Dems represent the following communities:

Oakland County

• Commerce Township
• Highland Township
• Lyon Township
• Milford Township
• City of Northville
• City of Novi
• Novi Township
• City of South Lyon
• City of Walled Lake
• Waterford Township (part)
• White Lake Township
• City Wixom

March 4, 2010

We are proud of another endorsement today – the Gratiot County Democratic Party has decided to support our campaign! Thank you Gratiot Dems!

March 3, 2010

We are pleased to announce the support and endorsement today of Southfield Mayor Brenda Lawrence! We appreciate her confidence in our growing campaign effort!

March 2, 2010

We are proud to have received today the endorsement of Ingham County Register of Deeds Curtis Hertel Jr.!  Thanks to Register of Deeds Hertel for his confidence in our campaign.

March 1, 2010

We are thrilled to have received today the on-the-spot endorsement of the Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council! An unprecedented move by this influential union strengthens us as we work to earn the party’s endorsement in April! Thanks for your confidence in our campaign.

February 28, 2010

The Jocelyn Benson for Secretary of State Campaign thanks the Antrim County Democratic Party for their recent endorsement.  We appreciate all of the Antrim Dems and their continued support!

February 27, 2010

We’re proud to have received an endorsement from the Cheboygan County Democratic Party! Thanks for your continued support, Cheboygan Dems!

February 26, 2010

We are thrilled today to have received another endorsement – this time from the Livingston County Democratic Party!  Thanks Livingston Dems for your continued support!

February 24, 2010

We are honored to have received the endorsement today of the Iosco County Democratic Party. Thanks to the Iosco Dems for your strident support and goodwill!

February 21, 2010

The Jocelyn Benson for Secretary of State campaign proudly announces the endorsement of the Branch County Democratic Party!  Thanks to all of the Branch County Dems for their support of Jocelyn’s continuing work.

February 20, 2010

We are thrilled to announce the endorsement of our campaign by the Lake Superior State University (LSSU) College Democrats.  Jocelyn truly appreciates our friends in the Upper Peninsula supporting her ongoing efforts!

February 19, 2010

Jocelyn’s campaign welcomes the Western Michigan University College Democrats to our ever-growing list of endorsers. Thanks to all of our friends in Kalamazoo for your continued support!

February 18, 2010

Add another State Representative to our list of supporters – State Rep. Sarah Roberts (D-St. Clair Shores) has endorsed our campaign! Thanks to Rep. Roberts for her confidence!

February 17, 2010

We’re pleased today to announce the endorsement of the Central Michigan University College Democrats!  Thanks for your support and Fire Up Chips!

February 16, 2010

Jocelyn is extremely honored today to have received the campaign endorsement of Detroit City Charter Commissioner and former Wayne County Clerk and state representative Teola Hunter!  Many thanks to Ms. Hunter for her support!

February 15, 2010

We were so pleased today to announce a cadre of Metro Detroit support for Jocelyn’s  campaign at a cold - but energized – event in Highland Park.  The following community, religious, grassroots, and political leaders from Detroit and Highland Park have signed onto the campaign:

• Gary Brown, Detroit City Council President Pro-Tem
• Rev. David Bullock, Pastor of the Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church in Detroit
• Rev. Andre Spivey, Detroit City Councilman and Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Detroit
• Rev. Horace Sheffield III, Pastor of the New Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit
• Bishop Charles Ellis III, Pastor of the Greater Grace Temple in Detroit
• Bishop John Sheard, Southwest First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction in Detroit
• Rev. Charles E. Williams II, King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church of Detroit
• Bishop Lewis Evans, Soul Harvest Ministries of Highland Park
• U.S. Congressman John Conyers (D-Detroit)
• State Senators Martha Scott, Irma Clark-Coleman, Hansen Clarke, and Tupac A. Hunter, all from Detroit.
• State Representatives Bert Johnson, Shanelle Jackson, David Nathan, Fred Durhal Jr., Rashida Tlaib, Coleman Young Jr., Gabe Leland, Tim Bledsoe, and Bettie Cook Scott, all from Detroit.  
• Tim Killeen, Wayne County Commissioner
• Paul Massaron, Wayne State University (WSU) Board of Governors
• Eugene Driker, WSU Board of Governors
• Gary Pollard, WSU Board of Governors
• Reginald Turner, State Board of Education
• Casandra Ulbrich, State Board of Education
• Virgie Rollins, DNC Black Caucus Chairwoman
• Ken Coleman, Detroit City Charter Commissioner
• Leontine Person, President of the Bewick Block Club
• Pearl Reynolds, Detroit Senior Advocate
• Maureen Stapleton, Candidate for 4^th District, State Representative
• AFT Michigan

We continue to add more supporters in the metro Detroit area daily.  Check back often for an update on our endorsements from across Michigan!

February 14, 2010

State Rep. Woodrow Stanley (D-Flint) has endorsed Jocelyn’s campaign for Secretary of State.  Thanks to Rep. Stanley for his support!

February 13, 2010

Add another State Senator to our growing list of endorsements! Thanks to Senator Irma Clark-Coleman (D-Detroit) for her support!  She becomes the eighth state senator to publicly endorse Jocelyn’s campaign for Secretary of State.

February 12, 2010

More good news today as the Allegan County Democratic Party has endorsed Jocelyn’s campaign for Secretary of State.  Thanks to our friends in western Michigan for their vote of confidence!

February 11, 2010

State Senator Tupac A. Hunter (D-Detroit) has proudly endorsed Jocelyn’s campaign for Secretary of State today.  Senator Hunter, the assistant democratic leader in the Michigan Senate, becomes the seventh senator to sign on to our effort.  Thank you so much Senator Hunter!

February 10, 2010

The endorsements keep on coming as Rep. Fred Durhal, Jr. (D-Detroit) announces his support of Jocelyn’s campaign.  Thank you Rep. Durhal for your efforts and well wishes.

February 9, 2010

Thanks so much to Rep. Jon Switalski (D-Warren) for his endorsement of the campaign today.  We appreciate his continued support!

February 8, 2010

The Jocelyn Benson for Secretary of State campaign welcomes the endorsement of Rep. Tim Bledsoe (D-Grosse Pointe).  Thank you, Rep. Bledsoe, for your confidence as we move forward to November!

February 7, 2010

The support of our work keeps on coming as the Alger County Democratic Party has enthusiastically endorsed Jocelyn’s campaign for Michigan Secretary of State!  We appreciate the goodwill of our friends in Alger County! 

P.S. – check back soon here on the buzz for a complete list of county endorsements.

February 5, 2010

More good news today as the Clare County Democratic Party has unanimously endorsed Jocelyn’s campaign for Secretary of State.  Thanks to all of the Clare County Democrats for their support!

February 4, 2010

We’ve just received word that the Isabella County Democratic Party has unanimously endorsed Jocelyn as their pick for Michigan Secretary of State.  As part of their endorsement, party officials pointed to Jocelyn’s experience, intelligence, goals, and high ideals for the Secretary of State position as the chief reasons for their support.  Thank you so much for your endorsement, Isabella Dems!

February 3, 2010

We’re pleased to announce that the Eaton County Democratic Party has endorsed Jocelyn’s candidacy for Michigan Secretary of State.  Thank you to all of the Eaton Dems for your confidence – we are honored to have your support!

February 1, 2010

Jocelyn’s Clerks for Benson group had its kickoff today, as six county and city clerks endorsed her campaign for Secretary of State.  Clerks endorsing Jocelyn today included Carmella Sabaugh from Macomb County, Mike Bryanton from Ingham County, Susan Kaltenbach from Saginaw County, Lawrence Kestenbaum from Washtenaw County, Pamela Mayfield from Clare County, and Lansing City Clerk Chris Swope.  Read the media release below for additional details and thanks to all of our wonderful clerks for their support!

—

CLERKS FROM ACROSS MICHIGAN ENDORSE BENSON FOR SECRETARY OF STATE

DETROIT – Six county and city clerks from across the state reaffirmed and announced their support today for Wayne State University professor of law Jocelyn Benson’s campaign for Michigan Secretary of State.  These six city and county clerks – who represent the first members of Clerks for Jocelyn Benson – are leaders in their field and stalwart proponents of a strong electoral process at all levels of government.  Those clerks include:

• Carmella Sabaugh, Macomb County Clerk
• Michael Bryanton, Ingham County Clerk
• Sue Kaltenbach, Saginaw County Clerk
• Pamela Mayfield, Clare County Clerk
• Lawrence Kestenbaum, Washtenaw County Clerk
• Chris Swope, Lansing City Clerk

 “Clerks around Michigan – at both the city and county levels – know the importance of ensuring that elections are conducted with the highest degree of integrity, and we believe that Jocelyn Benson, when elected Secretary of State, will work tirelessly to ensure the sanctity of our state’s electoral process,” said Bryanton, chairperson of Clerks for Benson.  “Our joint endorsement of Jocelyn Benson comes today not only because of her depth of experience with election law in Michigan, but also because of her intellect, character and strong work ethic.  We can think of no one better to be our next Secretary of State than Jocelyn Benson.” 

“The importance of this set of endorsements should send a clear signal that prominent election officials from around the state support our campaign and believe we are the best choice for Michigan Secretary of State in 2010,” Benson said.  “I am deeply honored by their endorsements because they recognize – in the electoral environment that we live in today – that Michigan deserves a Secretary of State who clearly knows the law and will be unafraid to stand up to corporate interests who would seek to buy our citizens’ votes.”

The Clerks for Benson constituency group lend their names to an impressive list of endorsements from other elected officials across Michigan, including Congressman John Conyers, State Senators Jim Barcia, Gilda Jacobs, John Gleason, Hansen Clarke, Martha Scott, and Gretchen Whitmer.  The list also includes Macomb County Treasurer Ted Wahby, and 11 State Representatives, including Bettie Cook Scott, Lesia Liss, Rebekah Warren, Shanelle Jackson, Rashida Tlaib, Bert Johnson, David Nathan, Fred Durhal, Coleman Young, Jr., Mary Valentine, and Joel Sheltrown.

January 30, 2010

Jocelyn is again honored to receive more great endorsements today, this time from Saginaw County Prosecutor Mike Thomas and State Representative Joel Sheltrown (D-West Branch), who represents the 103rd House District.  Thanks to both of these wonderful leaders for their steadfast support!

January 27, 2010

Jocelyn announced today that because of your tremendous support, we not only passed – we shattered – our year end fundraising goal for 2009. In just a few short months in 2009, we raised more than $227,000 from more than 1200 individuals. This is more than any other non-incumbent candidate has ever raised for this office at this point in the election cycle.

But make no mistake, our work has just begun.  We have a long road ahead and need your continued support to succeed in building a new type of campaign that brings real reform and innovation to the office of Secretary of State. Check out the press release which further outlines today’s important milestone below.

—

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  January 27, 2010

CONTACT:  T.J. Bucholz, (517) 898-4641

 SECRETARY OF STATE CANDIDATE JOCELYN BENSON  RAISES MORE THAN $227,000 FOR CAMPAIGN IN 2009

Benson Received Most Donations Of Any First Time Secretary of State Office Seeker In State History, Most Money Still Cash On Hand 

DETROIT – Wayne State University law professor and 2010 candidate for Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson will report to the state on February 1 that her campaign raised an unprecedented $227,000 in 2009, more than any non-incumbent candidate seeking the office at this point in the election cycle in state history.

“I am so honored that more than 1,200 individuals have already enthusiastically invested in our campaign for Michigan Secretary of State,” Benson said Wednesday. “It means even more during these difficult economic times, and it is humbling that so many people are willing to place their faith in our effort.  This is a clear signal that we are building a new type of campaign, and that voters across the state want real leadership in Lansing.  I know – and they know – that together we can bring reform and innovation to the office of Secretary of State.”

Even more notably, reports will show that of the $227,000 raised in 2009, more than 91 percent of her total – or $207,000 – represents Benson’s cash on hand available for campaign expenditures this year, making her a formidable candidate who values fiscal discipline as part of her overall electoral effort.  In-kind donations to the Benson campaign increased the total, bringing the amount raised in 2009 to close to $250,000.  Contributions came from 50 different Michigan counties.

“I am also very proud that while working hard to shatter our year-end goals for fundraising, we kept our costs extremely low – demonstrating a fiscal discipline that voters can expect me to replicate as our state’s next Secretary of State,” Benson said.  “Our team of more than 70 county and local coordinators has worked tirelessly to engage voters across our state in developing our plan to make government work better for all citizens.  But make no mistake, our work has just begun, and we will continue to work vigorously and build a broad base of support throughout Michigan.”

Benson, a resident of Detroit, announced her candidacy for the Office of Secretary of State on October 8.  She is the author of the forthcoming book, State Secretaries of State: Guardians of the Democratic Process.   As one of the leading election law experts and educators in the state of Michigan, Jocelyn Benson – when elected Secretary of State – will work to:

• Investigate Campaign Finance Violations, Fraud, and Deceptive Practices: Jocelyn Benson will use the powers of the office of Secretary of State to vigorously uphold election and campaign finance law, while working to protect voters from intimidation and minimizing Election Day administrative errors.
• Improve access to branch office services:  As Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson will ensure that all SOS branches accept credit cards, create “one-stop service centers” through partnership with existing state offices, and address the negative impact of recent branch office closings throughout our state.
• Improve access to elections and protect the integrity of the democratic process:  Jocelyn Benson will work toward modernizing our state’s system of voter registration, advocate for the increased use of early and no reason absentee voting, and uniformly enforce campaign finance and election laws, regardless of political affiliation. 
• Promote Uniformity and Fairness in Drivers Safety and Licensing:  Jocelyn Benson will modernize and update the state’s drivers education curriculum, explore the possibility of multi-year license plates – saving citizens hundreds of dollars per year, and ensure accuracy and transparency in the charging of all licensing fees.

 January 26, 2010

Senator Gretchen Whitmer (D-East Lansing) has added her name to a substantive list of legislative endorsements for Jocelyn’s campaign.  Among others, Michigan state senators who have already signed on include Sen. John Gleason from Flint, Sen. Martha Scott from Highland Park, Sen. Gilda Jacobs from Oakland County, and Sen. Jim Barcia from Bay City.  Many thanks to Sen. Whitmer for her support!

January 22, 2010

Read and pass on Jocelyn’s take on the future of campaign finance reform, in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling Thursday.  Demand that the Michigan Legislature enact broader disclosure laws for corporations!

Time for Transparency:  Michigan Must Quickly Implement Better Reporting and Disclosure Requirements Following Recent Supreme Court Campaign Finance Decision

Earlier this week, the United States Supreme Court struck down an important election law that limits the ability of corporations to directly influence political campaigns.  In Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, a slim majority of five Justices voted to expand the First Amendment protections for corporations, enabling them to potentially spend millions of dollars on commercials and other media in an attempt to influence the outcome of elections.

There are two main reasons why it is important to regulate the influence of money in politics:  to avoid corruption or the appearance of corruption, and to ensure – as much as possible – an equal playing field in the political “marketplace of ideas”.   Democracy and government work best when public servants truly serve the public, instead of doing only the bidding of the big businesses that give them the largest campaign donation. 

The Supreme Court’s revised interpretation of the First Amendment emphasizes that corporations are entitled to the same sorts of free speech protections that citizens enjoy.   In doing so, the Justices expressed only a minimal concern that allowing corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns will invite an appearance or perception of corruption.

What does this mean for voters in Michigan?  We can expect to see – almost immediately – an increase in corporate spending directly to influence political elections at the federal level.  But, in Michigan elections, corporations are already able to exert a large amount of political influence. 

According to the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, corporations already spend millions on elections here, specifically through buying television “issue” ads designed to influence the outcome of gubernatorial and other significant state races.   As long as the advertisements don’t directly ask someone to vote for or against a candidate, they don’t count as campaign contributions, and therefore is acceptable for corporations to spend unlimited amounts of funds on them.

But when a business buys an ad to sell an issue, or a candidate, voters deserve to know who is behind the camera.  Transparency is the key to limiting corruption, promoting accountability, and ensuring a healthy democracy.

So if corporations now have the “right” to influence our elections, our state legislature must move swiftly to enact and enforce broader disclosure requirements for them.  We must require corporations to publicly file reports when they spend money on campaigns.    Because the caustic and corrupting influence of money in politics is best countered with daylight, strong disclosure requirements will empower our voters with the tools they need to accept or reject the message – or the product – a corporation is selling. 

January 21, 2010

Great news out of the 14th Congressional District tonight as the Allen Park Democrats have officially endorsed Jocelyn for Michigan Secretary of State!  Thanks to all for their support of our campaign!

January 14, 2010

Jocelyn was recently honored with resounding support as the Oakland County Democratic Party has officially endorsed her campaign for Michigan Secretary of State.  Read more about their wonderful endorsement in the press release below.

—

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  January 14, 2009

CONTACT:  T.J. Bucholz, (517) 898-4641

OAKLAND COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY ENDORSES JOCELYN BENSON FOR 2010 SECRETARY OF STATE RACE 

BINGHAM FARMS – The Oakland County Democratic Party (OCDP) has resoundingly endorsed Wayne State University professor and national election law expert Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State, citing Benson’s qualifications, comprehensive agenda, and work ethic as reasons to support her electoral bid. 

“We truly believe that Jocelyn Benson represents real change for Lansing and she will make a fantastic  Secretary of State when she is elected in November, “ said Mike McGuinness, OCDP Chairman. “We know she is dedicated to ensuring that every vote in Michigan matters.  Jocelyn Benson will modernize the Secretary of State’s office and further improve the integrity of our elections – both in Oakland County and throughout our state.” 

The 174-member Executive Committee of the OCDP – which includes leading Democrats from throughout Oakland County, one of Michigan’s most populous counties – endorsed Benson at their regular meeting on January 12.  The OCDP represents approximately 300,000 voters in Oakland County who voted Democratic in the 2008 general election. 

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the OCDP because it represents the faith that so many Oakland County Democrats have in the strength of our campaign,” Benson said.  “I intend to continue the journey toward the Democratic convention this August and hope to affirm their faith in me and the progressive agenda for election reform I represent for Michigan.”

The Oakland County Democratic Party is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote social and economic justice by building an engaged, diverse, Democratic majority in Oakland County in order to enhance the quality of life for all.

December 27, 2009

Jocelyn has been wholeheartedly endorsed for Michigan Secretary of State by the non-partisan Women’s Campaign Forum.   Visit the WCF’s website for a detailed description of their endorsement.  WCF, founded in 1974, is a non-partisan national network dedicated to achieving parity for women in public office.

December 17, 2009

Michigan Liberal’s coverage of Congressman Conyers’ endorsement of Jocelyn is featured below:

Campaign news and rumors: Benson nabs another endorsement by: Eric B. Thu Dec 17, 2009 at 13:25:44 PM EST

Jocelyn Benson has secured the endorsement of John Conyers for Secretary of State. This is not terribly notable in its own right, since Benson is the only Democrat in the running for the job, but it is a continued sign that this campaign is laying all the right foundation work to make a serious, credible run at this spot next November. So far, her Republican opponents have been busy cranking out Teh Batty to win that party’s nod.—

December 17, 2009

Read and pass on today’s Letter To The Editor written by Jocelyn and Macomb County Clerk Carmella Sabaugh supporting online voter registration as appeared in the Macomb Daily News!

—

Voter registration should be online

Test your knowledge. Michigan citizens can do which of the following online:

Register for the Selective Service system to possibly fight and die for your country.

Pay taxes.

Access Social Security benefits information and change your Social Security file.

Register to vote.

All may be done online, except registering to vote. It’s time for a change. Online voter registration will reduce fraud and save money. We support State Rep. Lesia Liss, D-Warren, and others who want this reform in Michigan. Controversy raged in 2008 with the alleged filing of “false” registration forms.

The best anti-fraud solution is to allow eligible citizens to register to vote online. It eliminates the danger of third-party groups losing registrations or submitting them late. It ensures third-party groups could not destroy registrations filled out by would-be voters who identified themselves with an opposing political view. In fact, third-party groups would not need to handle registration forms at all.

The major concern regarding online voter registration is security and accuracy. There would be less risk of fraud with online voter registration than with the current paper method. First-time Michigan voters must vote in person and show photo ID at the polls. Elections officials would still review each submission.

Arizona and Washington have accepted voter registration forms online for years. If a citizen has a signature on file with the state, such as a driver’s license, then it is linked to their voter registration. The challenges were solved with online transactions listed above. American ingenuity can solve the challenges with online voter registration.

This reform saves money. The state and counties spend thousands mailing received paper registrations to the correct local clerks. This mailing cost would be eliminated for online registrations.

Clerks’ receipts would be instant. Citizens would get immediate e-mail confirmations. This would cut the costs of printing, transmitting, and manual data entry.

We urge the Michigan Legislature to pass this much needed reform. This is a simple, common-sense solution that has worked in other states, will reduce fraud and save money.

Jocelyn Benson, Wayne State University Law School assistant professor
Carmella Sabaugh, Macomb County Clerk/Register of Deeds

December 16, 2009

We’re thrilled to share the exciting news that Congressman John Conyers has endorsed Jocelyn to be Michigan’s next Secretary of State.  Read all about it in our below press release.  We are honored by the Congressman’s support as we gear up for 2010.

—

CONGRESSMAN JOHN CONYERS ENDORSES JOCELYN BENSON FOR 2010 SECRETARY OF STATE RACE

DETROIT – Michigan Congressman John Conyers (D-Detroit) today endorsed Wayne State University professor and national election law expert Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State, citing Benson’s impeccable qualifications and leadership ability as reasons to support her electoral bid. 

“Jocelyn Benson has an unquenchable commitment and tireless passion for election reform that will benefit millions of Michigan citizens when she is elected Michigan Secretary of State,” Conyers said. “Her dedication to making true improvements to the office and working to ensure that every vote is counted in our state represents the real change we need in Lansing.”

Conyers, the nation’s longest-serving African-American Congressman and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said Benson’s efforts to reach out to voters throughout the state is reminiscent of another Democratic Secretary of State – Richard H. Austin.

“Not since Richard Austin have we had such a vocal proponent of both election reform and Secretary of State business office improvements that will make it much easier for all citizens to utilize its services seamlessly,” Conyers said. “I am proud to have such a qualified candidate willing to step up and represent the Democratic Party in 2010.”

Benson said she was honored to have Conyers’ support.

“I am absolutely humbled to have received Congressman Conyers endorsement for Michigan Secretary of State,” Benson said in response to Mr. Conyers’ endorsement.  “His confidence in our campaign energizes me to work even harder to secure the trust of voters everywhere, and I vow not to let him down.”

December 15, 2009

We’re proud to announce that the Cass County Democratic Party Executive Committee has voted to endorse Jocelyn as the 2010 Democratic candidate for Michigan Secretary of State.  Learn more about the Cass County Democrats at their official web site.

December 3, 2009

Exciting news from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as the Houghton County Democratic Party unanimously endorses Jocelyn for Michigan Secretary of State!  We sincerely appreciate their steadfast support!  Check out more from the Houghton Dems here. 

December 1, 2009

GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES UNION ENDORSES JOCELYN BENSON FOR 2010 SECRETARY OF STATE RACE

Citing her passion for voter rights, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has officially endorsed Jocelyn Benson for the 2010 race for Michigan Secretary of State.

The union – which represents more than 7,000 AFGE members in Michigan – endorsed Benson because of her background as an election law expert, educator, author, and voting rights advocate, said Joe Dolan, AFGE national representative.

“(Your experience) clearly sets you apart from the rest of the field, giving you a unique perspective to ensure that all voters have an opportunity to participate in one of our most sacred rights as Americans – the right to vote,” Dolan said in a letter to Benson.

“I am humbled to have received the support of an organization that represents tens of thousands of incredible public servants around our nation,” Benson said.  “The AFGE knows the importance of ensuring that all of our citizens have unfettered access to the polls, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that their faith in me is honored and respected.”

Dolan also cited Benson’s work in developing the first nationwide Voter Protection Program, stating that it “has given you the insight and knowledge required to protect voters from fraud and deceptive practices.  Your subsequent election protection efforts in Michigan…has uniquely positioned you as the most experienced and knowledgeable candidate on a myriad of voting rights issues facing voters in this state.”

Further, AFGE believes Jocelyn Benson’s “vision to make Michigan a leader in accessible voting, to be a strong advocate for government reform, to fairly enforce campaign finance and election law violations, and to protect the rights of all voters, will all contribute to your long-time goal of protecting the integrity of the election process and making government more responsive.”

November 11, 2009

JUSTICE CAUCUS ENDORSES JOCELYN BENSON FOR  2010 SECRETARY OF STATE RACE

DETROIT – The Justice Caucus, the progressive caucus of the Michigan Democratic Party with more than 2,000 members statewide, has endorsed the nomination of nationally-renowned election law expert Jocelyn Benson as the Michigan Democratic Party’s candidate for Secretary of State in 2010. 

 ”If nominated and elected, Jocelyn Benson will be the most prepared and qualified person ever elected Secretary of State in Michigan,” said Paul Stevenson, Administrative Co-Chair of the Justice Caucus.

 ”This is the earliest endorsement the Justice Caucus has ever made, and for good reason,” Stevenson said.  “Jocelyn Benson is exceptional. A professor at the Wayne State University Law School, Ms. Benson is a nationally respected expert in the most important part of the Secretary’s of State job:  that is, to protect every citizen’s right to vote, ensure fair elections and strictly enforce Michigan’s campaign finance laws.”

“Though she teaches election law, she has an abundance of real life experience outside the classroom.  Benson created the first nationwide Election Protection program for the Democratic National Committee. She recruited and trained voter protection coordinators in 21 states, resulting in the deployment of more than 17,000 well trained election law lawyers.”

Stevenson added that Benson has a deep commitment to every person’s right to vote.  “Her work with the Southern Poverty Law Center informs her vision to ensure that our Constitution’s promise of one person – one vote is a continuing reality.”

 ”At a time when some unscrupulous Republicans propose to use foreclosure lists to challenge a person’s right to vote, Jocelyn Benson will vigorously protect innocent victims of our economic downturn from being denied their most basic right as a citizen,” Stevenson said.

“Michigan’s people will also benefit by Benson’s curious mind and work ethic.  She is open to new ideas and constantly seeks better ways for the Secretary of State to serve the public.  Benson is the only candidate who has interviewed nearly every Secretary of State in the country, from both sides of the political spectrum.  She is investigating ways to identify and develop best practices for secretaries of state to promote democracy, election reform and efficient government service.”

“Not only is Benson exceptionally qualified for the job, she is an outstanding candidate.  She has enormous understanding of grassroots politics and proven fund raising ability.”  Stevenson said.  “She will be an asset to Democratic candidates up and down the ticket and a gift to the people of Michigan.”

Stevenson concluded: “Michigan Democratic Party (MDP) Rules give every person who will be 18 years old on or before Election Day in November 2010 and a member of the party for at least 30 days before the August, 2010 State Convention the right to vote as a delegate on nominations for Secretary of State, Attorney General and Supreme Court. To join the MDP, go to: http://michigandems.com/join.php

For further information, visit www.Justice4Michigan.org

October 21, 2009

Macomb County Clerk and 2006 Democratic Nominee for Secretary of State Carmella Sabaugh Endorses Jocelyn for 2010 Secretary of State Race

Sabaugh, the Michigan Democratic Party’s candidate for Secretary of State in 2006, said she endorsed Benson as “the best choice to champion voter’s rights, prevent fraud, and modernize the office.  Jocelyn Benson is an election law attorney with experience in and out of the courtroom.  (Benson) is old enough to know what’s right and young enough to do it.”

Benson said she was “deeply honored” by Sabaugh’s endorsement and would work to again make the state a national model for elections management.

“I am in complete agreement with Clerk Sabaugh that we should again be as proud of our leadership in protecting voting rights as we are of our leadership in protecting the Great Lakes,” Benson said.  “I am thrilled to receive her endorsement and will work to reach out to other clerks and continue to promote election reform that benefits all our state’s registered voters.”

In her endorsement letter, Sabaugh also took aim at Republican legislators in the State Senate for blocking important voter reforms that would ensure equal access to the polls for all registered voters.

“Jocelyn Benson is not part of the Michigan Senate GOP Leadership that has blocked reform for years,” Sabaugh said. “She will be a fresh voice in Lansing to champion voter’s rights, prevent fraud, and modernize the (Secretary of State’s) office.”

Click here to read the full text of Sabaugh’s endorsement.

October 8, 2009

Flint Mayor Dayne Walling and State Senator John Gleason (D-Flint) Endorse Jocelyn!

“As a mayor, I understand the importance of protecting the right to vote, one of the most sacred principles of our democracy,” said Flint Mayor Dayne Walling, announcing his endorsement of Benson at a Press Conference at the Flint YMCA. “I sincerely believe that Jocelyn Benson understands the needs of all citizens, regardless of race, religion or socioeconomic status, and will fight each day to ensure that the Secretary of State’s office serves their needs appropriately without bias or agenda.

“As founder of the Michigan Disability Caucus, I am pleased to endorse Jocelyn Benson as our next Secretary of State, and know she will bring needed election reform and responsible accessibility to the disabled and seniors,” said State Senator John Gleason (D-Flushing). “Jocelyn Benson is the change we need in Lansing to ensure that everyone is afforded the promise guaranteed to all citizens in the Constitution of one person, one vote.”

October 6, 2009

 

AFT Michigan Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State

Contact:           David Hecker – 313-393-2200

 

Detroit – Today AFT Michigan is proud to announce our endorsement of Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State in the 2010 election.

“This is a special endorsement for AFT Michigan,” said David Hecker, President of AFT Michigan.  “Not only is Jocelyn Benson a national election law expert committed to improving the electoral process in Michigan, she is one of our own, a proud member of our local representing the faculty at Wayne State University.  Her commitment to improving access for voters, making sure every vote counts, and uniform enforcement of campaign finance and election law will bring greater integrity to elections in Michigan.”

The AFT Michigan Administrative Board voted unanimously to endorse Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Secretary of State at its meeting on September 21, 2009.

We’ll be announcing additional endorsements in the coming weeks.  Stay tuned!

What people around Michigan are saying about Jocelyn Benson’s candidacy for Michigan Secretary of State:

“Jocelyn Benson is, without a doubt, the most exciting and highly qualified Secretary of State candidate I have seen in decades.” – State Senator Jim Barcia (D-Bay City), August 2009.

After a visit to Berrien County, Benson, “left no doubt in anyone’s mind that she will be the next Secretary of State and she will eliminate the obstacles between voters and the ballot box.” – Harbor Country Progress, Union Pier Michigan, July 2, 2009

“Benson’s breadth of knowledge of current election law and needed reforms is very impressive.” – State Senator Gilda Jacobs (D-Ferndale), June 2009

“Jocelyn Benson has built a career protecting the integrity of the election process.” – Carmella Sabaugh, Macomb County Clerk and 2006 Democratic nominee for MI SOS, April 2009

“Jocelyn Benson is one of our country’s premier voices and a tireless champion for voters’ rights.” – Progress Michigan, www.progressmichigan.org, March 2009

“… Prof. Benson is the Real Deal, and certainly appears to be a serious, credible and highly-qualified candidate for Michigan Secretary of State.” – Blogging for Michigan 3/29/2009

“…[Jocelyn] is a compassionate warrior motivated to ensure that, our most precious right – the right to vote – is safeguarded. I hope that you are as inspired after getting to know her as I was.” – Mary Golden, UAW Local 598 Newsletter, May 2009

“…[Benson] clearly has the lead for the nomination at this point.” – West Michigan Rising 5/1/2009

“Jocelyn Benson is a former law clerk, and she exemplifies hard work and commitment to fairness and equal justice under law.” – Judge Damon J. Keith, 2/1/2009