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DOJ Public Integrity Section Guidance on Timing of Michigan Canvasser Interviews

An October 3, 2023 DOJ Public Integrity Section email records timing guidance for proposed FBI interviews in a potential Michigan voter-registration-fraud investigation because a state election was imminent.

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01

Proposed interviews in a potential-fraud investigation

The email describes an FBI Detroit investigation of a potential voter-registration-fraud scheme and a proposal to interview approximately 100 former canvassers to determine whether they submitted falsified applications, possibly to meet employment quotas.

“FBI/DE is currently investigating a potential voter registration fraud scheme”
DOJ Public Integrity Section email
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“approximately 100 individuals who served as”
Description of proposed interviews
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“possibly in order to meet quotas for the submission of voter registration applications as part of their employment.”
Investigative purpose described in email
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02

Election non-interference rationale

PIN said the matter implicated DOJ's election non-interference policy because Michigan voter registration covers both federal and state elections and numerous overt interviews near the November 7 election could create an appearance that investigators sought to affect it.

“may create a public perception of the Department and FBI acting with a purpose of affecting the outcome of that upcoming election.”
PIN policy explanation
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03

Interviews deferred but other work permitted

PIN concurred with conducting the proposed canvasser interviews only after the November 7 election was concluded, certified, and uncontested, with December discussed as the interview period. The email still permitted appropriate coordination with authorities and covert investigative activity before the election, while requiring renewed consultation before other overt steps, charges, or public statements.

“PIN concurs in the proposed interviews of the canvassers only after the November 7, 2023, election is concluded, certified, and uncontested.”
PIN timing direction
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“any other appropriate covert investigative activity, even prior to the November 7, 2023, election.”
Permitted investigative activity
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“Please also consult again before bringing any charges or making any public statement regarding this matter.”
PIN consultation requirement
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