Citizens in Charge Foundation, a national I&R watchdog group out of DC, has released the following statements on the robo calls made this week by MAPO.

“There is nothing more intimidating than getting a call from the police, particularly one telling voters that engaging in political activity makes one an extremist or is illegal in some way” said Paul Jacob, president of Citizens in Charge. “We want to see that voters in the 17th district are able to exercise their right to petition the government under the Michigan and U.S. constitutions without intimidation or harassment from any group, especially the police.”

The call states that “illegal and deceptive tactics” are being used in the petition drive, but gives no explanation. No one involved in the petition effort has been charged or convicted of violating any law.

“What is deceptive or illegal about petitioning the government?” asked Jacob. “The Michigan Association of Police Organizations should know better than to falsely accuse anyone of a crime, especially for exercising their constitutional right to petition. These calls from MAPO are deceptive, and despicable.”