Elections have never been more intense than they are this year. Maricopa County, Arizona, is deploying snipers and drones to protect the voting process. Security measures are in response to federal warnings of possible election-related violence. Maricopa County has been the focus of election fraud claims since 2020.
Snipers and Aerial surveillance
Maricopa County election officials will use unprecedented security measures for the upcoming election. Snipers will be stationed near ballot counters to prevent potential threats and ensure the safety of election workers. This plan also includes the use of drones for real-time aerial surveillance, which will provide critical response capability to any suspicious activity.
The measures are in response to federal agency alerts about potential election-related disruptions. Visitors will be screened using metal detectors, and an integrated surveillance camera system will be installed to maximize visibility and effectively deter threats.
🧵On Friday, 2 armed individuals dressed in tactical gear were onsite at our Mesa ballot drop box. After @mcsoaz arrived, the individuals left. @MaricopaCounty Chairman Gates & @RecordersOffice Recorder Richer said they condemn these actions. Read more: https://t.co/iHFPCxeLFT pic.twitter.com/o8JCudzVCj
— Maricopa County Elections (@MaricopaVote) October 23, 2022
A Reflection of Past Tensions
These security enhancements are underpinned by political unrest, particularly following the 2020 US election. That year witnessed unprecedented challenges, culminating in a Capitol breach on January 6, 2021. These events have raised security concerns, particularly in politically charged areas like Maricopa County.
Snipers will concentrate on protecting a key tabulation center, which has historically been a source of contention and allegations of election fraud. Despite limited evidence of fraud, tensions surrounding the election process remain high.
The Department of Justice emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy for threats against election officials and infrastructure. Carlos Uriarte stated, “The Department has no tolerance for violence and illegal threats of violence against public officials, government offices, and election infrastructure.”
Drones will be in the sky and snipers on the roof as votes are counted in Maricopa County. And it's completely understandable. https://t.co/Czil6JWsni via @azcentral
— Laurie Roberts (@LaurieRoberts) October 21, 2024
Coordinated Security Efforts
Aside from snipers and drones, Maricopa County will strengthen election sites with extensive security measures. Security fencing, combined with floodlights, will add an extra layer of defense. These efforts are mirrored by additional measures being implemented nationwide. Other counties have implemented bulletproof equipment and continuous surveillance of election machinery.
“The Department will not tolerate violence or illegal threats of violence against public officials, government offices, or election infrastructure. – Carlos Uriarte
Cobb County, Georgia, plans to patrol voting sites and maintain vigilance through an emergency operations center, while also monitoring threats via CCTV and social media. Such measures demonstrate a national commitment to ensuring the integrity and safety of the election process despite current challenges.
Sources:
- Snipers Deployed to Protect Election Workers as Officials Fear Threats
- Snipers Deployed to Protect Election Workers as Officials Fear Threats
