Montgomery County officials emphasize rights, responsibilities and safety as election approaches

The county has received reports of voters feeling uneasy due to the actions of other members of the public.

As Election Day approaches, Montgomery County officials are reminding citizens to be polite and respectful when interacting with poll workers, Voter Services staff and other members of the public at polling places and drop boxes.

The County has received reports of voters being made uncomfortable by the actions of other members of the public verbally and recording communications outside of collection boxes and satellite voter service offices.

Members of the public, including party-appointed election observers, party volunteers, political candidates and other volunteers, are allowed to communicate with voters and even film in public areas outside polling stations; however, videotaping inside polling stations and polling stations, as well as acts of intimidation or harassment of voters, are strictly prohibited.

The county’s 2,800 poll workers are responsible for administering elections at the county’s 426 polling places and are not tasked with responding to questions related to suspected criminal activity.

Any suspicious activity at mailboxes or polling places, including suspected criminal activity or threats of harassment or intimidation against voters, election officials or candidates, should be reported to the County Elections Line at 610-292-2024.

Election Services is operated by the Montgomery County Attorney’s Office. Additionally, the county recently expanded the DA’s Threat Assessment Unit to respond to and investigate any reported incidents.

Residents should call 9-1-1 if there is an emergency at a polling place or mailbox that directly threatens public safety. More information can be found on the district’s website. Voter Guide: Where to Turn for Help.

“We want to remind people that any type of intimidation or harassment against voters or election workers while performing their civic duties is completely unacceptable,” said Neil K. Mahia, chairman of the Montgomery County Board of Elections. “The safety of our election officials and voters is of the utmost importance. We work very closely with the County Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, Department of Public Safety and our municipal law enforcement partners to ensure that every person participating in our elections, whether assisting operations or making their vote was heard, could do it safely. and without fear. We are prepared to address any allegations of intimidation, harassment or violence.”

“While it’s great to see so many people engaged and passionate about the democratic process in Montgomery County, we also want to make sure passions don’t run too high,” said Jamila H. Winder, Montgomery County Vice Chair. Election Commission. “No one should ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe going to the polls, and no one should be deterred from exercising their democratic rights. If a voter does encounter a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable, they should report it and seek assistance from the county and state.”

“Filming outside a voter services office or polling place is legal because they are considered public places,” said Tom DiBello, Montgomery County Commissioner. “However, state law prohibits anyone from doing this inside a polling place. Therefore, if someone does intend to film or photograph outside a drop box or polling place, they must follow the law, respect other voters, and not interact with any member of the public in a way that makes them uncomfortable. Use common sense: We all have an interest in making sure this year’s elections go smoothly.”

Montgomery County voters have many resources to help them. available here.