Hobbs says more voter intimidation reports in the Valley have been forwarded to law enforcement
Oct 25, 2022, 5:59 AM
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)
PHOENIX — Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs said Monday more reports of voter intimidation have been sent to law enforcement, bringing the total number of cases to six.
Hobbs’ office also referred a report over the weekend about an election worker who had been harassed, according to a press release.
“Voter intimidation is illegal, and no voter should feel threatened or intimidated when trying to vote. Anyone attempting to interfere with that right should be reported,” Hobbs said.
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She said that harassment comes in various forms, such as gathering around ballot drop boxes questioning voters, wielding weapons, capturing photographs of voters and following or chasing those trying to drop off ballots.
“It can all be considered voter intimidation. It is unacceptable,” Hobbs said.
Last week, an East Valley couple filed a complaint with the office accusing a group of watchers of filming and following them from a drop box. Days later, two individuals armed in tactical gear were seen observing voters at ballot drop boxes in Mesa.
“The Secretary of State’s Office has received several complaints which has been referred to the Department of Justice and Arizona Attorney General’s Office for further investigation,” Hobbs said.
She called on law enforcement to protect voters from ongoing intimidation and said she’d continue to forward reports to them.
Hobbs encouraged voters who feel intimidated to report it to their county recorder or to her office by calling 1-877-THE-VOTE (843-8683) or submitting an online form.
