Razor wire. Thick black iron fencing. Metal detectors. Armed security guards. Bomb sweeps.
The security at this centre where workers count ballots mirrors what you might see at an airport – or even a prison. And, if needed, plans are in place to further bolster security to include drones, officers on horseback and police snipers on rooftops Arizona vote-counters.
Maricopa County became the centre of election conspiracy theories during the 2020 presidential contest, after Donald Trump spread unfounded claims of voter fraud when he lost the state to Joe Biden by fewer than 11,000 votes. Falsehoods went viral, armed protesters flooded the building where ballots were being tallied and a flurry of lawsuits and audits aimed to challenge the results.
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Protect Arizona vote-counters
The election’s aftermath transformed how officials here handle the typically mundane procedure of counting ballots and ushered in a new era of high security. The county, the fourth most populous in the US and home to about 60% of Arizona’s voters, has been planning for the election for more than a year, according to Skinner.
The sheriff’s department handles security at polling stations and the centre where ballots are counted. The deputies have now been trained in election laws, something most law enforcement wouldn’t be well-versed in.
“Our hope is that it doesn’t arise to a level of need for that,” he said when asked about beefed-up security measures like drones and snipers. “But we will be prepared to ensure that we meet the level of need, to ensure the safety and security of that building” and its employees.
The election process here in many ways echoes that in counties across the country. Ballots are cast in voting centres and then taken to a centre with new tabulation machines in Phoenix. If they’re mailed in, the ballots are inspected and signatures are verified. They’re counted in a meticulous process that includes two workers – from differing political parties – sorting them and examining for any errors.
The process is livestreamed 24 hours a day.
While much of this process remains the same, a lot else has shifted. Since the 2020 election, a new law passed making it easier to call a recount in the state. Previously, if a race was decided by the slim margin of 0.1% of votes cast, a recount would take place. That’s now been raised to 0.5%.
The tabulation centre is now bristling with security cameras, armed security and a double layer of fencing.
Why Arizona?
Arizona, a high-stakes battleground state, has faced tensions in recent elections, with officials reporting concerns over protests, intimidation, and threats against election workers. Given these risks, security measures have been ramped up to avoid incidents that could disrupt vote counting or compromise staff safety.
Advanced Surveillance Measures
Drones will monitor the areas surrounding key vote-counting centers, providing real-time data to security teams on the ground. With aerial views, officials can identify potential threats or suspicious activities early, allowing for quick response if necessary. This technology enables a comprehensive view that is both discreet and effective in protecting sensitive areas.
Snipers Positioned as a Last Line of Defense
Specially trained law enforcement officers are stationed strategically near vote-counting sites. While snipers are a last resort, their presence serves as a deterrent, helping ensure that vote-counting can proceed without interference. Officials emphasize that these personnel are highly trained to respond only if there is an immediate threat to life or safety.
Supporting Election Workers
The recent increase in security stems from a broader effort to protect election staff from harassment and threats. Arizona officials have stressed the importance of allowing election workers to perform their duties without fear, noting that the enhanced security is a reflection of respect for the democratic process and those who uphold it.
With election tensions running high, Arizona’s use of drones and specialized law enforcement illustrates a firm stance on securing the vote-counting process. The state’s priority is clear: ensure that every vote is counted safely, fairly, and without interruption.
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