Holland Reporter

State Representative Angela Rigas has expressed criticism of Attorney General Dana Nessel's recent decision regarding Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. The issue arose from findings that Benson violated campaign finance law by announcing her gubernatorial campaign at a press conference held in the Richard H. Austin Building, which is a government facility. This act contravenes state campaign finance regulations that prohibit campaigning within government buildings.

Rigas, who chairs the House Oversight Committee’s Subcommittee on Weaponization of State Government, described Nessel's response as mere theatrics with no substantial consequences for Benson. "Let’s be clear: Nessel only went after Benson to save face," Rigas stated. She characterized the action as an attempt by Nessel to appear impartial after years of allegedly protecting Democratic allies while targeting conservatives.

Nessel announced she was issuing Benson “a reminder and warning” rather than pursuing more severe penalties. Rigas believes this situation highlights what she perceives as a two-tiered justice system, which her subcommittee has been examining for months.

“Nessel weaponized her office against barbers and waitresses during COVID,” Rigas commented, suggesting a disparity in how political allies are treated compared to others who have faced legal actions under Nessel's tenure.

The subcommittee led by Rigas has been investigating alleged politically motivated enforcement practices under Nessel's leadership as attorney general. The investigation includes claims of targeting small business owners like Marlena Hackney and Karl Manke and suppressing dissenting voices through misuse of power.

“This wasn’t justice,” said Rigas about the handling of the case involving Benson. “It was damage control, and it proves everything we’ve said about Nessel’s partisan double standards.”