Livingston Today

State Representative Ann Bollin, a Republican from Brighton Township, has released a statement regarding the resignation of Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commissioner Dustin Witjes. Witjes stepped down after reports surfaced that he had been residing and working in Illinois for over a year while still receiving a salary from the state.

In her statement, Rep. Bollin expressed her belief that Witjes' resignation was long overdue. She criticized his prolonged absence from Michigan while collecting pay as a member of the redistricting commission, calling it unacceptable. Bollin emphasized that living outside the state disconnects individuals from the communities they are meant to represent and undermines the integrity of the redistricting process.

Bollin stated, "This situation has exemplified a lack of accountability and a disregard for the responsibilities tied to this crucial role." She further added, "It removes them from the direct consequences of the decisions they make as commissioners. This kind of detachment undermines the integrity of the entire redistricting process and erodes public trust."

Highlighting the importance of having commissioners who are fully committed and directly impacted by their decisions, Bollin called on Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to address the issue promptly and decisively. She stressed that Michigan deserves commissioners who are fully dedicated to their role and the impact it has on the state.

Earlier this week, Rep. Bollin sent a letter to Secretary of State Benson, expressing her concerns about redistricting commission members living outside the state. The resignation of Witjes has only heightened the need for action to be taken to ensure the integrity of the commission is maintained.

The Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission plays a vital role in redrawing the state's congressional and legislative district boundaries. It is crucial that the members of this commission are fully committed to their responsibilities and are directly impacted by the decisions they make.

As the investigation into the residency of redistricting commission members continues, Michigan citizens are looking to their elected officials to address these issues swiftly and ensure that the integrity of the redistricting process is upheld.

To find out more, go to this link: https://gophouse.org/posts/rep-bollin-issues-statement-on-resignation-of-redistricting-commissioner-witjes