Sun Sep 15 14:06:05 UTC 2024: ## Election Officials Face Alarming Rise in Threats, Especially at the Local Level
Threats and harassment against election officials in the United States have reached alarming levels, with a significant surge recorded in July, according to the Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI). The non-partisan research group based at Princeton University reported a more than doubling of such incidents, with over 70 events recorded, compared to just over 30 in June.
The spike in threats, including a significant number of death threats, comes amid heightened political tensions following the shooting at a former President Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania and incidents of harassment against local officials by neo-Nazis in Tennessee.
Experts warn that these threats are increasingly targeting officials at the “hyperlocal” level, focusing on specific local government votes, policies, and regulations. This trend is particularly concerning as it extends beyond national politics and directly impacts the ability of local officials to perform their duties.
“The rise in threats and harassment is unacceptable,” said BDI Executive Director Shannon Hiller. “While the vast majority of Americans have joined to reject calls for political violence, the data demonstrates that more needs to be done to protect civic space.”
The Brennan Center for Justice, a group assisting BDI, notes that the use of firearms as an intimidation tactic is becoming increasingly prevalent, with incidents like armed protesters appearing at the home of Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, accusing her of election fraud.
“The noise is designed to create a sense of chaos and confusion and fear and disengagement,” said Benson, highlighting the efforts to undermine trust in the electoral process.
Several states are taking steps to address this growing threat, with Michigan considering legislation to prohibit firearms near polling places and ballot counting locations.
Despite these efforts, the threat level remains high heading into the November election. The data shows a 30% increase in threat events compared to the first seven months of 2023, and an astounding 87% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
The situation underscores the need for a concerted effort to protect election officials and ensure the integrity of the democratic process.
First Piper 