Governor Whitmer’s campaign officially cleared of campaign finance complaints

Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) has been cleared of a complaint that she misused campaign funds when she chartered a private jet and accepted campaign contributions above the state limit during her recall election earlier this year.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s office issued a statement on Monday outlining the decision. “As with any complaint, the professional staff with Michigan’s Bureau of Elections conducted a thorough analysis that included a review of all relevant laws, policies, and the facts presented, which resulted in the Department concluding that there was no legal violation in either instance,” said Department spokesperson Josh Rollow.

Secretary Benson’s office explains Whitmer chartering a private flight to Florida to visit family did not violate any campaign finance laws because the plane was chartered to protect Whitmer’s physical safety. Whitmer traveled with her Michigan State Police security detail on that flight.

The governor subsequently offered to pay for the charter herself, costing $855. The Secretary of State’s office further explains that Whitmer’s campaign did not violate any campaign finance regulations by accepting donations larger than the state maximum of $7,150 because she was facing recall efforts, and the cap is lifted during recall efforts.

Critics have spoken out against the decision. “Secretary of State Benson’s ruling confirms that ‘rules for thee, not for me’ is not just a political quip, but ingrained in Michigan Democrats’ operating procedures,” said executive director for Michigan Rising Action Eric Ventimiglia to Detroit News after Secretary Benson’s announcement. The Office of the Michigan Secretary of State said it would be willing to review both policies if requested.