SE Grand Rapids News

State Rep. Rachelle Smit, who serves as Speaker Pro Tem of the House and chairs the House Election Integrity Committee, has criticized Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for statements about the recently passed House budget. Smit accused Benson of misleading Michigan residents regarding potential impacts on services at Secretary of State branches.

Smit responded to Benson’s warnings that the budget would lead to long wait times at branch offices by describing them as a political maneuver intended to alarm families in Michigan. According to Smit, most of the positions targeted for cuts are unfilled roles within the Department of State—186 out of 240 eliminated positions exist only on paper. The remainder includes 49 new roles established by Benson in recent years and five unclassified administrative posts not involved in direct public service at local branches.

“Secretary Benson is purposefully misleading people,” said Smit, R-Shelbyville. “She knows full well that these cuts don’t touch the frontline workers who actually help Michigan families. Instead of coming clean, she’s trying to protect her own political machine and convince people their services are at risk. That’s dishonest and unacceptable.”

Smit further questioned Benson’s leadership or intentions regarding claims about wait times: “If cutting five political appointees really brings the system to its knees, then Benson is either completely incompetent, or she’s manufacturing a crisis on purpose,” Smit said. “Michiganders deserve a Secretary of State who is focused on customer service, but Secretary Benson already has her mind on her gubernational campaign.”

Emphasizing fiscal responsibility, Smit stated that House Republicans aim to reduce wasteful spending while safeguarding taxpayer interests.

“Families are stretched thin, and they expect us to protect their money. We can’t let politicians waste it on empty positions and vanity projects,” Smit said. “This budget cuts the fat, demands accountability, and ensures every dollar is going to the services people count on. Secretary Benson may not like it, but Michigan taxpayers sure do.”