Lawmaker’s active role in pushing election conspiracy theories, supporting attack on nation’s Capitol deserve harsh and official rebuke from Michigan Legislature

LANSING — Rep. Matt Maddock, R-Milford, should be censured by the Michigan House of Representatives for his continued attempts at undermining our democracy by fomenting election conspiracy theories and assisting with the heinous attack on the U.S. Capitol, House Democrats said Thursday.

“Rep. Matt Maddock is a leading Michigan voice in this movement to undermine the legitimate election of President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and continues to sow discord in our democratic processes,” said Rep. Abraham Aiyash, D- Hamtramck, who will introduce one of the resolutions. “For months and without apology, Rep. Maddock has perpetuated conspiracy theories and election fraud lies, which culminated in the seditious acts at the U.S. Capitol last week. Yesterday, the U.S. House impeached President Donald Trump. Now, the Michigan House must do our job and discipline Rep. Maddock.”

The resolutions call on a House select committee to be formed to examine the misconduct of Maddock, citing several incidents that warrant censure, including:

  • Joining in the frivolous Texas v. Pennsylvania lawsuit challenging Michigan’s election results.
  • Joining a phony group that attempted to enter the Michigan Capitol on Dec. 14 and contest the counting of Michigan’s electoral votes.
  • Signing onto another federal lawsuit – full of outright fabrications and baseless claims – that aims to require state legislatures, not electors, to certify the results of presidential elections.
  • Signing onto a letter to Vice President Mike Pence ahead of the Joint Session of Congress asking him to unconstitutionally decertify the Nov. 3 general election results and delay the counting of the electoral votes.
  • Speaking to the crowd of Trump supporters before the attack on the U.S. Capitol, furthering misinformation of a fraudulent election.

“Rep. Matt Maddock has participated in all of the inciteful rhetoric that has stirred the nation to the boiling point where our nation’s Capitol was attacked and Capitols around the country – including Michigan’s – are on high alert anticipating more violence in the days ahead,” said Rep. Darrin Camilleri, D-Brownstown Twp, who will introduce one of the resolutions. “This censure would be a vital first step in restoring faith in the Michigan House of Representatives where he is a sitting member.”

The first session day of the 101st Legislature began Wednesday.

“It’s clear by his actions that Rep. Maddock does not believe in the very oath to uphold the Constitution that he took yesterday,” said House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Twp. “That is why I have repeatedly called on House Speaker Jason Wentworth to take action if Rep. Maddock and all 18 House Republican members refuse to publicly disavow their disgraceful actions.”

The resolutions, which will officially be introduced during House session on Jan.19, can be found below.

Maddock Censure Resolution #1

Maddock Censure Resolution #2

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