Texas House Passes Bill That Would Let Election Judges Carry Guns

The Texas House has approved a bill that would permit election judges to carry firearms at polling sites to enhance security.

Key Insights

House Bill 1128 aims to permit election judges to carry guns at polling stations, adjusting current restrictions.
Representative Carrie Isaac introduced the bill due to threats against poll workers.
The Texas House passed the bill with a vote of 85-57.
The bill is set to move to the state Senate for further consideration.

Legislative Background and Intent

House Bill 1128 was introduced by Republican state Representative Carrie Isaac in response to documented threats against election workers during the 2024 presidential election. With a vote tally of 85-57, the Texas House passed the legislation, sending it next to the state Senate. The bill proposes amendments to existing Texas law by allowing election judges, but not other poll workers or the general public, to carry firearms at polling sites.

This move aligns with a 2018 opinion by Attorney General Ken Paxton, which suggested that election judges should have similar privileges to district judges in this regard. The objective is to create a safer environment and allow judges to maintain order more effectively, particularly when hiring and retaining election staff poses challenges due to safety concerns.

Texas election judges could carry guns if bill OK’d by House becomes law https://t.co/7lgizbIauF

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Controversy

Critics have argued that the presence of firearms could increase tension and potentially contribute to voter intimidation at polling places. Representative Barbara Gerbin-Hawkins and others suggested alternative security measures, such as increased law enforcement presence. However, Isaac argued this may be unfeasible due to a shortage of available officers.

“Unfortunately, it takes time for law enforcement to arrive, and that is why we need someone there at all times for protection,” Isaac said. “…Your concern is about the election. My concern is about an innocent person getting hurt.”

Isaac also said that some workers have quit due to safety concerns, adding that, “If we expect them to uphold the integrity of our elections, we must do our part to ensure polling places are safe and secure for everyone involved.”

Next Steps and Future Implications

If the bill garners Senate approval, Governor Greg Abbott is set to sign it into law, with a suggested effective date of September 1. The bill delineates specific roles and responsibilities for election judges at polling stations, providing them with the authority to ensure order and resolve disputes. Dialogue continues surrounding the idea of arming election officials, with substantial divides noted across party lines and among civil advocacy groups.