A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Wayne County Election Division regarding absentee ballots in Detroit for the 2024 election cycle on October 15, 2024.
The request was made by us at Great Lakes Wire, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. We sought records under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act § 15.231 et seq., preferably in electronic format.
Specifically, we requested a list of all voters who have requested and returned absentee ballots in the City of Detroit for the upcoming 2024 Election cycle.
As a media organization, our role involves gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
We await a response from the Wayne County Election Division and will keep our readers updated with any developments.