Cops Won’t Fight Federal Election Interference—So Citizens Will Have To
Since 2020, President Donald Trump and his allies have been hinting that they might send federal forces to “protect” polling places—hints that have come more frequently as Trump’s approval ratings crater and the midterms draw closer. In mid-May, Trump made a Mob-boss-like threat: “I would do anything necessary to make sure we have honest elections.” […]
Since 2020, President Donald Trump and his supporters have been hinting at the possibility of federal forces intervening in elections. In May, Trump threatened to do anything necessary to ensure fair elections. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin also suggested sending ICE to polling places if there was a "specific threat". However, these hints may be intended to discourage voting. DHS has denied any plans to use ICE at polling places.
With a predicted surge in anti-GOP turnout, ICE or DHS agents may be dispatched to swing districts or certain neighborhoods. Local law enforcement and the National Guard are unlikely to confront ICE agents due to fear of confrontation and the desire to return home safely. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey noted the imbalance of resources and the impossibility of quickly responding to ICE's actions.
Governor Tim Walz deployed the National Guard after federal agents killed Alex Pretti, but they were primarily meant for de-escalation and peacekeeping, not specifically targeting ICE agents.
The Biden administration has been proactive in addressing potential election security threats. The Brennan Center for Justice, ACLU, and other organizations are mobilizing ahead of the election. The government has allocated significant funds to enhance election security, but the effectiveness of such measures against a militarized ICE remains uncertain.
Written by urgent.news from Mother Jones's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
