In a recent press release, the United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands announced the assignment of Assistant United States Attorneys to oversee the efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 2022 general election. The appointed AUSAs will be responsible for handling election day complaints, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process, protecting the rights of voters, and addressing any violations of federal election law. This press release highlights the Department of Justice’s commitment to deterring and combatting discrimination, intimidation, and fraud in relation to the general election.
Press Release by United States Attorney Relating to November 2022 General Election
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands has issued a press release regarding the upcoming November 2022 general election. In order to ensure the integrity of the election process and protect citizens’ voting rights, Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) have been assigned specific roles to oversee election day complaints and address violations of federal election laws.
Assignment of Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSA)
AUSA Marivic P. David has been assigned as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Guam, while AUSA Eric S. O’Malley will serve as the DEO for the District of the Northern Mariana Islands. These AUSAs will be responsible for handling and overseeing election day complaints in their respective districts, including voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud. They will work in consultation with the Justice Department Headquarters in Washington DC.
Overseeing Election Day Complaints
The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to addressing any concerns or complaints related to voting rights during the upcoming election. AUSAs Marivic P. David and Eric S. O’Malley will be responsible for handling and addressing voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud. These AUSAs will consult with the Justice Department Headquarters to ensure the proper handling and resolution of complaints.
Protecting the Integrity of the Election Process
The Department of Justice is dedicated to protecting the integrity of the election process and ensuring that every citizen is able to vote without interference or discrimination. Unlawful threats of violence directed at election officials and staff will not be tolerated. The Department of Justice will allocate resources to safeguard the election process and ensure that citizens’ votes are counted in a fair and free election.
Addressing Violations of Federal Election Laws
The Department of Justice plays an important role in deterring and combating discrimination and intimidation at the polls, as well as addressing election fraud. Any violations of federal election laws will be thoroughly investigated and addressed by the Department. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program serves to further these goals and aims to maintain public confidence in the electoral process.
Special Protections for Voters’ Rights
Federal law provides special protections for voters’ rights and prohibits crimes such as threatening violence against election officials or staff, bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, and other fraudulent activities. These protections ensure that voters can exercise their rights without interference or intimidation. The Voting Rights Act specifically protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or be assisted by a person of their choice if needed.
Importance of the Franchise in American Democracy
The franchise, or the right to vote, is the cornerstone of American democracy. It is crucial to ensure that eligible individuals are able to exercise their right to vote, and that any attempts to corrupt the voting process are prosecuted. Upholding the franchise is essential to maintaining the democratic principles upon which the United States was founded.
Contact Information for District Election Officers (DEOs)
For the District of Guam, AUSA Marivic P. David can be reached by the public at (671) 479-4120 or (671) 988-3260. For the District of the Northern Mariana Islands, AUSA Eric S. O’Malley can be contacted at (670) 236-2986. These DEOs will be available to address any concerns or complaints related to the election process in their respective districts.
FBI’s Role in Receiving Allegations of Election Fraud
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will play a crucial role in receiving allegations of election fraud and other election abuses. Special agents will be available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to handle these complaints. For the Honolulu Field Office, the public can contact (808) 566-4300. In Guam, the FBI can be reached at (671) 472-7465, and in the Northern Mariana Islands, at (670) 322-6934.
Complaints about Violations of Voting Rights Laws
Any complaints about possible violations of federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC. The public can contact the Civil Rights Division by phone at 800-253-3931 or submit a complaint form on their website at https://civilrights.justice.gov/. It is important to note that in cases involving crimes of violence or intimidation, individuals should call 911 immediately before contacting federal authorities, as local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places and can respond more quickly in emergencies.
Importance of Contacting Local Police for Crimes of Violence or Intimidation
In situations involving crimes of violence or intimidation at polling places, it is essential to contact local police by calling 911. Local police have primary jurisdiction in these cases and are better equipped to respond swiftly in emergencies. While federal authorities can address violations of federal election laws, local police have the capacity to provide immediate assistance and maintain public safety. Cooperation between federal and local law enforcement agencies is vital in ensuring a secure and fair election process.
In conclusion, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, along with the Department of Justice and the FBI, is committed to protecting the integrity of the upcoming November 2022 general election. The assignment of AUSAs as District Election Officers, the oversight of election day complaints, and the dedication to addressing violations of federal election laws all contribute to safeguarding citizens’ right to vote and ensuring a fair and free election.