In a recent announcement, U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker has appointed Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Kelly Cavanaugh as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Alaska. AUSA Cavanaugh will be responsible for overseeing the handling of election day complaints, voting rights concerns, threats of violence, and election fraud in the district. The Department of Justice’s Election Day Program aims to deter discrimination, intimidation, and fraud at the polls, as well as ensure public confidence in the electoral process. With a focus on protecting the integrity of elections and the rights of voters, the Department will address violations wherever they occur. In the upcoming general election, AUSA Cavanaugh will be available to respond to complaints and can be reached at 907-271-5071.
U.S. Attorney Tucker Appoints District of Alaska Election Officer
Introduction
In an effort to ensure the integrity of the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election, U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker has appointed Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Kelly Cavanaugh to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Alaska. AUSA Cavanaugh will be responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints, voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud. This appointment demonstrates the commitment of the Department of Justice to protect the electoral process and ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to vote without interference or discrimination.
Appointment of AUSA Kelly Cavanaugh
U.S. Attorney Tucker has chosen AUSA Kelly Cavanaugh to lead the efforts of the Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program. AUSA Cavanaugh brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, making her an ideal candidate for the position. As the DEO for the District of Alaska, she will be responsible for coordinating efforts with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington and overseeing the District’s response to election-related concerns and complaints.
Responsibilities of the District Election Officer
As the DEO for the District of Alaska, AUSA Cavanaugh will have several key responsibilities. These include overseeing the handling of election day complaints, ensuring the protection of voting rights, addressing threats of violence directed at election officials or staff, and combating election fraud. AUSA Cavanaugh will work closely with federal, state, and local authorities to ensure the integrity of the election process and uphold the rights of voters.
Importance of Protecting the Integrity of the Election Process
Protecting the integrity of the election process is of utmost importance in a democratic society. Every citizen has the right to vote without interference or discrimination, and it is crucial that their votes are counted in a fair and free election. By appointing a District Election Officer, U.S. Attorney Tucker acknowledges the significance of this responsibility and the need to safeguard the electoral process.
The Department of Justice’s Election Day Program
The Department of Justice plays a crucial role in deterring and combating discrimination, intimidation, and election fraud. The Election Day Program, which is part of the Department’s efforts, aims to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by addressing violations wherever they occur and providing local points of contact for reporting possible federal election law violations. By appointing AUSA Cavanaugh as the DEO for the District of Alaska, the Department reinforces its commitment to upholding the integrity of elections across the country.
Federal Laws Protecting Voting Rights and Preventing Election Fraud
Federal laws are in place to protect voting rights and prevent election fraud. These laws make it a crime to threaten violence against election officials or staff, intimidate or bribe voters, buy and sell votes, impersonate voters, alter vote tallies, stuff ballot boxes, or mark ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. Additionally, special protections ensure that voters can exercise their right to vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act also protects voters who require assistance in marking their ballot due to disability or language barriers.
Role of AUSA/DEO Cavanaugh
As the DEO for the District of Alaska, AUSA Cavanaugh will play a critical role in addressing complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election. She will be available to the public to receive and address any issues related to the election process. AUSA Cavanaugh will work collaboratively with federal, state, and local authorities to ensure that every citizen can exercise their right to vote and that any attempts to corrupt the electoral process are brought to justice.
Contact Information for AUSA/DEO Cavanaugh
For any concerns or complaints related to the upcoming election, AUSA/DEO Cavanaugh can be reached at the following telephone number: 907-271-5071. The public is encouraged to report possible violations of federal election laws or any election-related concerns to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Role of the FBI in Addressing Election Fraud
The FBI will also play a crucial role in addressing election fraud and other election abuses on election day. Special agents will be available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud. In the District of Alaska, the public can contact the local FBI field office at 907-276-4441 or submit complaints online at tips.fbi.gov. The FBI’s involvement further demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Reporting Possible Violations of Federal Voting Rights Laws
Any individual who believes they have witnessed a violation of federal voting rights laws can make a complaint directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC. The division can be reached by phone at 800-253-3931 or through a complaint form available at the website https://civilrights.justice.gov/. Reporting possible violations is essential to ensure that any attempts to undermine the voting process are investigated and addressed promptly.
Importance of Public Assistance
U.S. Attorney Tucker emphasizes the importance of public assistance in ensuring free and fair elections. By actively reporting any information related to voting rights concerns or election fraud to the Department of Justice or local authorities, individuals can contribute to the protection of the electoral process. The Department relies on the assistance of the American electorate to maintain the integrity of elections and ensure that justice is served.
Emergency Situations and Primary Jurisdiction
In the event of a crime of violence or intimidation at polling places, individuals are advised to contact local law enforcement authorities by calling 911 immediately. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places and can provide a faster response in emergency situations. While the Department of Justice plays a vital role in addressing election-related concerns, they recognize the primary responsibility of local authorities in maintaining public safety.
In conclusion, the appointment of AUSA Kelly Cavanaugh as the District Election Officer for the District of Alaska underscores the commitment of the Department of Justice to protect the integrity of the election process. By working closely with federal, state, and local authorities, AUSA Cavanaugh will ensure that every citizen can exercise their right to vote without interference or discrimination. It is essential that the public remains vigilant and reports any potential violations of federal voting rights laws to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.