DOJ Takes Action to Safeguard Elections and Secure Polling Stations

The Department of Justice has enhanced its dedication to safeguarding election workers by deploying election officers nationwide, facing rising threats with a united front against intimidation and ensuring voting integrity.

At a Glance

DOJ appoints district election officers nationwide to protect poll workers.
Election Threats Task Force collaborates with FBI and local law enforcement.
Prosecutions continue for threats against election workers; 2,000 reports reviewed.
DOJ initiatives aim to support democratic processes and deter intimidation.

DOJ’s Election Protection Strategy

The Justice Department has positioned district elections officers across the country to uphold the integrity and security of the electoral process. This move, preceding the elections, aims to combat intimidation and threats. The officers will act alongside the Election Threats Task Force, launched in June 2021, with the collective goal of thwarting threats against election workers. The task force, in collaboration with federal and local forces, has assessed over 2,000 reports of intimidation.

The Justice Department emphasizes that threats targeted at these workers pose a direct challenge to democracy itself. An alarming case involved Brian Jerry Ogstad from Alabama who admitted guilt to threats against Maricopa County election workers during the 2022 Arizona primaries. Prosecutors have charged multiple individuals for similar conduct since the task force’s inception. This swift legal action is seen as a deterrent for potential threats.

The Deputy AG also called out the unprecedented rise in threats to public officials, including election workers, as a clear and present danger to our democracy. She stressed that DOJ will continue working with partners to hold accountable those who threaten public servants.

— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) September 13, 2024

The Role of Federal Collaboration

The involvement of DOJ and FBI underscores the seriousness with which these threats are addressed. FBI Director Christopher Wray affirmed, “Violent threats to election workers are threats to our democracy and democratic process.” This collaboration aims to ensure that election workers perform their roles without fear, reinforcing the security and legitimacy of the electoral system.

With almost two dozen individuals charged since the task force began, the DOJ’s actions underline its commitment to counteract these threats. Operational focus is on fostering conducive environments for democratic participation, affirming that public servants can conduct their duties safely, unfettered by intimidation.

During yesterday’s Election Threats Task Force meeting, AG Garland noted DOJ’s accelerated #ElectionSecurity efforts to combat the increase in threats against election workers, officials, and volunteers. pic.twitter.com/YfIGWxuZJ2

— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) May 14, 2024

Focusing on Future Integrity

Proactive measures continue to protect election workers and election integrity. Attorney General Merrick Garland has reaffirmed this commitment, stating, “The functioning of our democracy requires that our country’s public servants be able to do their jobs without fearing for their lives.” Nationwide deployments serve as an additional layer to advance democratic stability and deter criminal acts that compromise public confidence.

The DOJ is encouraging the public to report any threats or violent acts to the authorities. Public confidence in elections is foundational; therefore, the DOJ continues on-the-ground meetings and joint events with the FBI to address and resolve election-related threats before they escalate. Maintaining an environment where democracy can thrive without jeopardy remains a central focus of these initiatives.