On the frontlines of ensuring the integrity of the election process, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah, Trina A. Higgins, has taken proactive measures by appointing Assistant United States Attorney Bryant Watson as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the upcoming general election on November 5. Bryant Watson's role will be crucial to directly oversee the handling of election day complaints including voting rights concerns, threats against election officials or staff, and instances of election fraud, in coordination with the Justice Department in Washington. Higgins has emphasized the critical nature of this role, stating, "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election," as reported by the U.S. Department of Justice
The Department of Justice vows to vigilantly protect the sanctity of the electoral process and thwarts to swiftly address any violations such as voter intimidation or election fraud. In their longstanding Election Day Program, the Department aims to not only deter but also combat these transgressions to ensure that public confidence is securely anchored in the electoral process. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Higgins articulated this mission further explaining, "The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process."
Federal law provides a bulwark against a range of electoral crimes and includes special protections for voters against intimidation or interference. The Voting Rights Act fortifies the right of voters to mark their ballots independently or to be aided by a person of their preference in instances of disability or literacy challenges in English. Crucially, AUSA Watson will be readily available during Election Day to respond to and direct complaints about voting rights concerns or alleged election fraud to the appropriate authorities. The public can reach AUSA Watson on Election Day by calling (801) 325-3311.
To complement the efforts on a federal level, the FBI will position special agents throughout the country to receive allegations of election abuses on election day. Individuals with pertinent information regarding any election fraud or voting rights concerns are encouraged to contribute to the preservation of democracy by making that information available to the DOJ. The Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC, invites direct complaints through their website or by phone at 800-253-3931. However, Higgins outlines that immediate and serious threats should first be addressed to local law enforcement by calling 911, before contacting federal authorities, as they hold primary jurisdiction over polling places and can often react more rapidly in emergencies.
