Michigan Settles for $20,000 with Voter Denied Ballot Despite Registration

Ashleigh Smith was turned away from a Muskegon County polling place in 2022 despite proper registration.

Ashleigh Smith attempted to vote multiple times in Holton Township but was denied due to an address issue in the electronic voter roster.
Smith had a voter registration receipt and a sticker on her driver's license indicating her new address.
The township could have provided a provisional ballot or re-registered Smith on the spot, according to her attorney.
Holton Township Clerk Jill Colwell-Coburn expressed regret but claimed there was nothing more she could do at the time.
The settlement acknowledges that the township's actions were indefensible, though officials believed they were acting in compliance with the law.