Detroit City Wire

GOP activists in Detroit are skeptical of Promote the Vote, a Michigan-based organization that opposes efforts to require identification at the ballots and the funding it's receiving from out-of-state special interest groups like American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

Identification requirements at the polls are a trending issue in Michigan, as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer voiced her opposition to requiring voters to provide identification when casting their votes, vetoing a similar measure passed by the state legislature last year, according to Detroit Free Press. Now, Promote the Vote is utilizing a $2.5 million gift from the ACLU to continue blocking initiatives that would require Michigan voters to show a photo ID in order to vote. 

“It’s no surprise to see the left has to rely on mega-donors from out of state to stop common-sense voter ID requirements," said one GOP activist in Detroit. "I’ve personally been circulating signatures and people from all over the political spectrum have been signing it.”

According to the Michigan Secretary of State's office, voters are currently not required to show a photo ID to register to vote, as a utility bill can qualify as a form of ID. However, during last year's elections a supermajority, 75%, of Michiganders support showing an ID in order to vote, according to Great Lakes Wire. 

While stricter voter identification laws are still up in the air following Whitmer's veto last year, the argument still stands for Michigan residents to become aware of the money being sent to supposed state groups that are actually taking large donations from national political big-money groups.

"We aren't looking at small donations from people who share similar beliefs," said Americans for Citizen Voting President Chris Arps. "We are looking at questionably large contributions. A majority of Promote the Vote's funding is coming not from Michiganders, but from out-of-state special interest groups."

Michigan residents looking to learn more about Secure Michigan Vote or sign up to receive a petition at their website can visit securemivote.org.