A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Osceola County Election Division on February 5, 2025. The request, sent by West Central Michigan News, a media organization dedicated to comprehensive and accurate news coverage of local governmental affairs, sought detailed information about all candidates running in the upcoming election.
The FOIA request specifically asked for a list of all candidates' names including their first, middle, and last names. It also requested information about the office each candidate is running for and its jurisdiction. The party affiliation of each candidate was also requested.
In addition to these details, West Central Michigan News has asked for all contact information for each candidate. This includes their address, phone number, and email address.
As a media organization committed to transparency and accountability in public institutions, we at West Central Michigan News believe that access to such public records is essential in fulfilling our professional responsibilities. We are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, and this information will aid us in providing comprehensive coverage of the upcoming elections.
We have also requested a fee waiver as a media professional under the provisions of the Michigan Freedom of Information Act § 15.231 et seq., which allows for such waivers for individuals or organizations involved in disseminating information to the public.
We await a response from the Osceola County Election Division regarding our request.
Alerts Sign-up