Trump Reportedly Pressured Michigan Republicans not to Sign 2020 Election Certification

Recordings reveal Trump's pressure on Michigan Republicans

Former President Donald Trump reportedly pressured two local Michigan Republicans to not sign the Wayne County certification for the 2020 presidential election. The Detroit News reviewed recordings of a phone call that took place on November 17, 2020, where Trump, along with Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, allegedly urged Wayne County Board of Canvassers Monica Palmer and William Hartmann to take action.

In the call, Trump emphasized the need to fight for the country and prevent others from taking it away. McDaniel supported Trump's stance and encouraged the canvassers not to sign the certification. The Detroit News reported that Trump assured them that legal representation would be provided if they chose not to sign.

The recordings were made by a participant on the call and were obtained by The Detroit News. While the existence of the call was known, its contents became public only after the release of the recorded conversation. CBS News has not independently verified the authenticity of the recordings.

Campaign's response and RNC's stance

The Trump campaign did not dispute the contents of the call. A campaign spokesperson stated that all of President Trump's actions were in line with his duty as the president to ensure election integrity. The spokesperson also mentioned the right of the American people to have free and fair elections.

The Republican National Committee (RNC) referred to comments made by Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel in response to the Detroit News report. McDaniel stated that she publicly emphasized the need for an audit due to ample evidence suggesting such a course of action.

Trump's attempt to challenge Michigan's election results through a federal lawsuit was made at the time. However, the lawsuit was dropped soon after. Michigan is expected to be a significant state in the 2024 presidential election.

Indictment and future implications

It is unclear if the special counsel handling the 2020 election-related federal indictment, Jack Smith, has access to the recording of the conversation between Trump, McDaniel, and the two canvassers. The incident, as described in the Detroit News report, has not been mentioned in the indictment.

The outcome of this controversy could have consequences for the upcoming 2024 presidential election, as Michigan is expected to be a crucial state once again. The actions of politicians and officials during the certification process will likely be closely scrutinized in the future.