Detroit Accused Of Hiding Election Footage In RNC Lawsuit Over Drop Box Video

The City of Detroit is facing accusations of deleting key election surveillance footage, according to a new lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee (RNC). The lawsuit claims Detroit violated the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by erasing video from a ballot drop box after Republicans requested it.

The RNC’s request for the footage came after Michigan’s August 6 primary, focusing on a drop box at Wayne County Community College. While the city initially requested more time to fulfill the request, it later informed the RNC that the video had been automatically deleted. The RNC argues that its request was made well before the footage was set to be erased and should have been preserved.

Michael Whatley, RNC Chair, criticized Detroit’s actions, saying, “Deleting drop box surveillance footage while there is a pending FOIA request for it is an assault on transparency.” The lawsuit demands that Detroit stop deleting election footage and seeks financial compensation for legal fees.

The RNC points to a 2019 executive order requiring the city to retain records, even when scheduled for deletion, if a FOIA request has been made. The lawsuit alleges that Detroit “capriciously violated” this rule by destroying the requested video.

The case has raised concerns among conservatives who worry that Democrat-run cities like Detroit are undermining election transparency. As the lawsuit moves forward, the RNC aims to ensure that all election-related surveillance is preserved and available for scrutiny.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR