The U.S. Department of Justice has outlined its ongoing efforts to safeguard voting rights, prosecute election fraud, and secure elections against foreign interference. The announcement details the roles of various divisions within the department, including the Civil Rights Division, Criminal Division, National Security Division (NSD), and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the nation.
The Civil Rights Division is tasked with enforcing federal statutes that protect voting rights and prevent discriminatory practices in elections. "The department’s Civil Rights Division is responsible for ensuring compliance with the civil provisions of federal statutes that protect the right to vote," states the release. This includes enforcing laws such as the Voting Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
For complaints related to potential violations of federal voting rights laws, individuals can contact the Justice Department through a toll-free line or submit complaints online.
The Criminal Division focuses on prosecuting election-related crimes like ballot destruction and voter intimidation. It works alongside U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI personnel to handle public complaints about possible election crimes.
The National Security Division oversees cases involving national security threats to elections, including foreign influence operations and cyber threats. The NSD collaborates with other agencies like the FBI and Department of Homeland Security to counter these threats.
"Protecting the right to vote, prosecuting election crimes, and securing our elections are all essential to maintaining the confidence of all Americans in our democratic system of government," emphasizes the department.
For further information on these initiatives, resources are available at www.justice.gov/voting and www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-pin/election-crimes-branch.