Though certainly influenced by the lingering presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020 an astonishing 70% of the more than 150 million votes received were cast before election day. This year, more than 55 million votes have already been cast as of last Wednesday (10/30).
It’s an amazing turn for a day that has long carried with it a certain tradition: the simple act of going to the polls to perform our civic duty. But more options to vote allow more citizens to vote. Many folks can’t take the time off due to work or family obligations, and early voting provides an avenue for participation the greater convenience and flexibility.
But others are taking advantage of the early voting period for a different reason: fear for their safety. As political tensions have increased in recent years, so has apprehension about attending the polls in person. Disinformation, intimidation, vandalism and more have turned what should be a day of celebration into a day of concern.
In fact, these tactics have grown so common, less than half of American voters say they feel safe at their polling place.
And voters aren’t the only ones feeling apprehensive. Across the country election officials and law enforcement agencies are preparing for the very real possibility of violence this election day. According to a report by the Brennan Center for Justice, 7 in 10 election officials say threats against them have risen since 2020 and nearly half have taken steps to increase security. Some municipalities have gone so far as to procure bulletproof vests, employ drones, and station snipers in the event of an incident.
But even with increased security measures in place, there’s still the very real possibility you could find yourself in danger this election day. By applying a few personal safety measures of your own, you can boost preparedness for yourself and your fellow citizens:
- Exercise Situational Awareness – While the focus is getting out the vote, make sure you keep an eye on what’s happening around you. Whether you spot a strange item or observe strange behavior, remember: If You See Something, Say Something.
- Don’t Engage – Mentally prepare yourself to avoid engagement with confrontational individuals. While you may not be able to stop someone from starting a conflict, you help reduce the odds of it getting worse if you a) don’t engage and b) contact security as soon as possible.
- Know Your Exits – You know the quickest way to get to your local polling place, but do you know the quickest way out of there? Whether it’s a local school, church, or community center, be sure to familiarize yourself with the property and identify the nearest and fastest routes to safety.
With expertise including Run-Hide-Fight, active shooter preparedness and response, situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and more, The Power of Preparedness provides critical guidance that can save lives. Contact us to learn more.