Schuette Announces AG Investigation of 11th Congressional District Petition Circulation

Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette announced yesterday that the Attorney General's Criminal Division will investigate allegations of possible fraud related to nominating petitions filed in Representative Thaddeus McCotter's 2012 candidacy for the 11th Congressional District. The decision to investigate follows a formal referral from the Secretary of State's Bureau of Elections.

Schuette said "we follow the facts, without fear or favor. It's our duty to maintain the integrity of our election process." He added "we will conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation. If evidence of criminal violations is uncovered, we will not hesitate to prosecute."

Earlier this month, Representative Thaddeus McCotter submitted nominating petitions to the Michigan Secretary of State for his candidacy for the 11th Congressional District. A formal review by the Bureau of Elections revealed various discrepancies in the petition filing, including duplicate signatures and the appearance of altered petitions.