Michigan Judge Dismisses Charges Against 15 Trump False Electors

A Michigan judge dismissed criminal charges against 15 Republicans accused of falsely certifying President Donald Trump as the winner of Michigan's 2020 presidential election, ruling prosecutors failed to prove they intended to commit fraud. The defendants, who signed a document claiming Trump won the state despite Joe Biden's confirmed victory, were charged with forgery and conspiracy. Judge Kristen Simmons emphasized that the defendants believed they were acting legally to present an alternative slate of electors if a recount or challenge changed the election outcome. This ruling marks a significant setback for efforts to hold election denialists accountable, even as organizers like Rudy Giuliani and others continue to face charges in other states. The case highlights the broader controversy over false electors, which played a role in the January 6 Capitol attack, and contrasts with ongoing prosecutions in states like Arizona and Nevada. Despite these developments, some who cast false electoral ballots for Trump were selected again in 2024 to cast legitimate votes after Trump won that year.