But the Macomb County clerk argued his office contacted Benson’s office regarding the voters and was told to refer the matter to local clerks for verification and removal of the individuals. “I think this is pretty serious stuff,” said Forlini, a Republican running for secretary of state. Benson, who is serving her last term as secretary of state, is running for the Democratic nomination for governor. The issue of noncitizens voting in Michigan elections has been a flashpoint in recent election security debates. A 15th was later added before the list was sent over to Benson, Forlini said Thursday.