Voter Suppression

From the Executive Summary: "In the United States, the right to vote is fundamental to our democracy and our elected officials must ensure that all eligible Americans have access to the franchise. While the November 2020 elections pose new challenges and obstacles related to the ongoing COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic, there is also concern about armed intimidators acting to prevent American citizens from casting their ballot.¹ Democracy faces insurrectionist violence that undermines our democratic institutions by creating a political climate of fear and hatred. These tactics have given rise to widespread political violence, primarily instigated by far right militias across America. They have led to the killing of protesters, the armed intimidation of state lawmakers, and the normalization of armed confrontations in our streets. The current threat that armed militia and other extremists pose to our democracy is built upon years of systemic racism and voter suppression, both exacerbated by the inequities highlighted by COVID-19."

From the Overview: "For the remaining 2020 elections, both primaries and in November, jurisdictions will still offer in-person voting, whether at Election Day polling places, or during early in-person voting at sites or the election offices. In the COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] environment, election officials should understand potential election management considerations associated with health and safety at voting locations. Regardless of the size of a jurisdiction's in-person operation, methods should be developed to protect the health and safety of poll workers and voters. Decisions affecting upcoming elections should be made as soon as possible to facilitate a safe election and minimize the operational risks associated with changing processes and procedures at a late date. [...] The guidance in this document includes engineering and administrative suggestions that can help minimize or mitigate poll worker exposure to COVID-19."