With the November 2024 General Election fast approaching, the Southern District of California is bolstering its efforts to ensure a fair and equitable voting process. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Askins has been assigned to manage the district's Election Day issues. He'll be chiefly responsible for handling complaints about voting rights violations, including any acts of intimidation or election fraud, as reported by the U.S. Department of Justice

U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath emphasized the importance of a secure voting process, stating through U.S. Department of Justice, "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election." McGrath also ensured the protection of election officials and staff against violent threats. As a liaison with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C., Askins aims to quickly respond to and address any voting-related concerns the public raises.

Askins' role is part of a broader Justice Department initiative that spans the length and breadth of the country. The FBI will also play a pivotal role by having special agents across all field offices to promptly handle allegations of election fraud and related abuses on election day. Individuals with specific concerns or evidence relating to impediments to the right to vote are encouraged to report these instances to law enforcement.

McGrath urges the public to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their voting rights. "The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to vote can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice." According to the U.S. Department of Justice. To make the reporting process accessible, Askins will be available while polls are open at (619) 546-6692. Additionally, the Civil Rights Division has provided a means to report violations via their website or phone at 800-253-3931 directly.

For incidents of violence or intimidation, the U.S. Attorney's Office advises the public to first contact local authorities by dialing 911, as they have jurisdiction over polling places and can often provide a more immediate response. The FBI can be reached for election day issues at (858) 320-1800. The collective message from federal authorities is clear: integrity at the polls is paramount, and there is a concerted effort to ensure that November's election is transparent, secure, and just.