Election-Related Security a Concern at Courthouses

With Election Day fast approaching, many branches of government are on high alert. There is concern for elected officials, of course, with two assassination attempts already on former President Donald Trump. But it is not just elected officials who are at risk. According to a top security official for the federal judiciary, judges should be cautious, as well. This is true for not only the federal level but also state and local governments.

Even though everyone has the right to free speech and the right to vote without interference, that does not mean there aren't groups who want to cause chaos in the political system. That also means everyone needs to be prepared for any possible disruption that may occur.

Security Concerns Related to Courthouses

Recently the federal judiciary was warned to prepare for possible security risks at United States courthouses leading up to the election. This caution came after a number of suspicious letters were sent to the offices of election officials in multiple states. The letters contained threats and a powdered substance which had to be tested to confirm it was not anything dangerous.

The courts could be a potential target because there have been, and will likely be, many more court cases filed to challenge different aspects of the election. This may include challenges to names appearing or not appearing on a ballot, individuals trying to vote, and challenges to ballots actually cast.

Security Concerns Related to the Judiciary

In planning for security concerns at courthouses themselves, law enforcement may also develop security plans for the judges who hear election-related court cases so they and their families are safe while they do their job. Security concerns for judges is not a new issue, but one that may be exacerbated by the current political climate.

Security Concerns Related to Polling Places

In a related issue, a new bill pending in Congress named The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act has been proposed by Senators Blumenthal, Murphy and Padilla. This pending bill attempts to provide protections to voters and election workers from intimidation at polling places while trying to calm the political environment.

Related Resources:

• Federal Spending Bill Allocates $705 Million to Security for Federal Judges (FindLaw's Federal Courts)
• Judges Seek Home Security Services Amid Increasing Threats (FindLaw's Practice of Law)