DOJ Sends Election Officers Nationwide to Combat Election Day Intimidation

In anticipation of the upcoming November 5 elections, the Justice Department (DOJ) in the United States is deploying district elections officers across various states to ensure that poll workers operate without facing threats and intimidation. This initiative is part of the DOJ’s Election Threats Task Force, which was established in June 2021 by Attorney General Merrick Garland to address the increasing incidents of violence against election officials. The task force has been actively working with local law enforcement to investigate reported threats against those administering elections. U.S. Attorney's offices have now appointed these district elections officers to manage complaints related to election day violations, including threats of violence and concerns about voting rights. The DOJ has emphasized that anyone threatening election workers will face serious legal consequences, having charged numerous individuals for such actions since the task force’s inception. This focus comes amid alarming increases in threats against election-related personnel since the 2020 elections. Garland has organized numerous meetings to support election officials and ensure their safety, reiterating that they should not work in isolation against this growing threat. In early November, the FBI will also assist in addressing issues that arise during the elections to safeguard the democratic process. The DOJ aims to maintain public confidence in the electoral process through its ongoing support and intervention efforts. Overall, the measures taken reflect a significant concern from the DOJ regarding threats to election integrity and the safety of those involved in the electoral process, ensuring they can perform their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.