Michigan Judge Denounces Justice Department’s Attempt to Access Voter Data
The ongoing battle over voter data access has reached a significant milestone in Michigan. A federal judge has upheld the state’s right to refuse a request from the Trump administration for personal voter information, asserting the importance of state autonomy in managing elections.
Michigan Judge Rejects Justice Department’s Data Request
Judge Hala Y. Jarbou of the Federal District Court for the Western District of Michigan delivered a decisive 23-page ruling, affirming that Michigan’s government was justified in denying the Justice Department’s demands. The administration’s claims of needing this data to prevent ineligible voters and combat alleged voter fraud were dismissed by the judge.
Background on the Case
Appointed by President Trump, Judge Jarbou’s ruling aligns with other federal decisions in Oregon and California. In these cases, judges have similarly concluded that the Justice Department lacks the authority to access private voter information, which includes sensitive data such as Social Security numbers and driver’s license details.
- States involved: Michigan, Oregon, California
- Key dates: Ruling issued on February 10, 2026
- Judge’s statement: Claims from the Justice Department were unsupported by law.
Judicial Concerns Over Data Privacy
The rulings from the three courts suggest a trend of skepticism towards the administration’s motives. Judicial opinions have highlighted concerns regarding potential misuse of voter data for purposes other than safeguarding electoral integrity. Specifically, fears of immigration enforcement and erosion of voter rights have been mentioned.
Nationwide Implications
The Justice Department’s requests started last summer, aiming for access to voter rolls across all states. To date, around 11 states have partially complied with these inquiries, as reported by the Brennan Center for Justice. However, many states, especially those led by Democrats, have opposed these efforts.
- States complying: Approximately 11
- States refusing: Over 20, predominantly with Democratic governors
Legal Rationales and Future Outlook
Judge Jarbou’s ruling indicated that federal laws cited by the Justice Department, including the Help America Vote Act and the National Voter Registration Act, do not authorize such data demands. The decision reflects broader concerns within the judiciary about the potential overreach of the executive branch in electoral matters.
As the midterm elections approach, the challenges posed to the Justice Department’s data requests may continue to shape the national conversation on election integrity and voter rights. Legal experts and advocates will closely monitor further developments as the judiciary navigates these complex issues.
