COLUMBIA, S.C. — U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs has announced that the Justice Department will be monitoring polling locations across South Carolina on Election Day, Nov. 5, to ensure compliance with federal voting rights laws. This effort, led by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, aims to protect the rights of all eligible voters to access the ballot fairly and without interference.
The monitoring initiative includes Justice Department personnel who will work alongside state and local election officials throughout the day, making sure federal civil rights laws are followed. This includes enforcing provisions of the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, and the Civil Rights Acts.
The department’s ADA Disability Rights Section will also oversee compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring voters with disabilities have an accessible and equitable voting experience. Additionally, the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division will be monitoring for any instances of voter intimidation or suppression based on race, color, national origin, or religion.
How to Report Concerns
If any South Carolinian observes or experiences potential violations of federal voting laws, they are encouraged to report them. Complaints can be submitted directly to the Civil Rights Division online or by phone at 800-253-3931. Questions specific to the ADA can be directed to the ADA hotline at 800-514-0301 or 833-610-1264 (TTY).
Additionally, any immediate concerns regarding disruptions, threats, or intimidation at polling sites should first be reported to local election officials and law enforcement by calling 911.
