State News: Supposed Voter intimidation in Grand Rapids, Michigan

(H/T RightMichigan.Com) (via Twitter)

The report comes via The Grand Rapids Press:

Republican poll challenger James Saalfeld reported violations of election rules at two Grand Rapids polling places this morning by people campaigning to oust Supreme Court Chief Justice Clifford Taylor.

One man handing out literature for Taylor’s challenger, Democrat Diane Hathaway, stood well within 100 feet of the entrance to Eastern Avenue Christian Reform Church, Saalfeld said. The man was wearing an United Auto Workers jacket. Others violated the same 100-foot rule at Sigsbee Elementary, he said.

“It seemed like they knew. It was almost like they were testing the waters to see if anyone would challenge them,” Saalfeld said.

Saalfeld, a Grand Rapids Township board member and local attorney, is monitoring polling places with attorney Tom TerMaat. Both men, credentialed as challengers through the Republican Party, are charged with alerting precinct captains if they see a violation.

“We’re just trying to make sure the rules are followed and everybody gets a fair shot at voting without interference,” Saalfeld said.

I can see the point here. While I have my personal reservation with Republican poll challengers, as I feel it is a form of voter intimidation; I think that the election laws should be followed in any election. This ensures fairness for all.

Let’s keep this election above board. We do not need another 2000 or 2004.