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Election 2024

Maricopa County Readies Its Defense Against Potential Election Day Turmoil

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Maricopa County says it’s prepared to foil potential Election Day violence

As Election Day approaches, Maricopa County is stepping up security measures in response to rising concerns about potential political violence. This year, the county, which ranks as the fourth most populous in the nation, has already received over one million early ballots, with more than 940,000 submitted via drop boxes and mail, as of October 28. The remaining ballots come from early polling locations, totaling around 75,000.

Maricopa County Director of Elections Scott Jarret highlighted the increased voter turnout, surpassing numbers from the 2016 and 2020 elections. On October 28 alone, over 17,000 early ballots were cast. This uptick in participation coincides with heightened national scrutiny due to the county’s association with election fraud conspiracy theories and contentious political narratives.

The significance of Maricopa County has attracted more attention—and security risks—as numerous individuals have been arrested for making violent threats against election workers in recent years. Sheriff Russ Skinner reported that law enforcement agencies have spent over a year on extensive planning to safeguard both voters and election officials.

“We don’t have any tolerance for criminal activity,” Skinner stated, asserting that threats of violence aimed at voters or election personnel will not be tolerated. So far, fewer threats have surfaced compared to previous elections, though the sheriff emphasized that ongoing monitoring remains a priority.

Jarret reassured the public that the county’s outdoor drop boxes are continuously monitored and equipped with fire suppression systems. Recent incidents, including the arrest of a man who set fire to a mailbox containing ballots, underscore the potential vulnerabilities. However, that individual’s actions appeared motivated by a desire for arrest rather than any intent to disrupt the electoral process.

Concerns extend beyond localized incidents. Drop boxes in Washington and Oregon have been targeted by incendiary devices, amplifying fears of similar attacks elsewhere. The controversy surrounding drop box security intensified during the 2022 midterm elections, largely fueled by discredited claims made in the film “2000 Mules.”

Despite the lack of credible evidence supporting allegations of widespread fraud, speculation continues to swirl around ballot drop boxes. Calls for investigations into organizations linked to these claims have been made, indicating the ongoing contentious nature of election integrity discussions.

Skinner reflected on the changes in the political landscape, stating, “Prior to 2020, we didn’t have these issues.” After the 2020 election, the Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center (MCTEC) became a focal point for conspiracy-driven protests, leading to increased security measures, including fencing off areas previously occupied by demonstrators.

Specific security plans for Election Day remain undisclosed to prevent influencing potential disruptions. However, between 200 and 300 law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies, including the Phoenix Police Department, will be on duty to ensure a safe electoral process.

Bill Gates, a supervisor in the county, expressed concern over the current state of affairs, remarking, “I think it is sad that this is where we are at that we have to have a press conference based on security.” The press conference coincided with the last day for voters to mail in early ballots. After this date, voters will have options to drop off ballots at polling locations or vote early in person.

For those seeking information on ballot drop-off locations, resources are available on the county’s official website.