Michigan Bans Open Carry In And Near Polling Places

The Detroit News reports:

Michigan is prohibiting the open carry of guns within 100 feet of polling places amid fears of voter intimidation during the pivotal Nov. 3 election, prompting criticism by Second Amendment advocates.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson sent guidance to local election officials on Friday — 18 days before Election Day — to clarify that the open carry of firearms on Election Day in polling places, clerk’s offices and absent voter counting boards is banned.

“The presence of firearms at the polling place, clerk’s office(s), or absent voter counting board may cause disruption, fear or intimidation for voters, election workers and others present,” the new guidance says.

Pro-Trump militias have twice stormed the Michigan statehouse and menaced lawmakers with assault weapons. Last week 13 militia members were arrested in a plot to kidnap Michigan’s governor. And yet, below, find the reaction to the ban from the Republican House leader.