First State Times

David C. Weiss, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, has announced that Assistant United States Attorney Shamoor Anis will lead efforts in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Anis has been appointed as the District Election Officer (DEO) for Delaware and will oversee complaints related to voting rights concerns, threats to election officials or staff, and election fraud.

U.S. Attorney Weiss emphasized the importance of fair elections: “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence."

The Department of Justice plays a crucial role in addressing discrimination and intimidation at polling places, as well as threats against election officials and workers. The longstanding Election Day Program aims to ensure public confidence by providing local points of contact within the Department for reporting potential federal election law violations.

Federal law protects against crimes such as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating voters, buying votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots against voters' wishes. It also includes special protections under the Voting Rights Act for voters needing assistance due to disability or language barriers.

Weiss further stated: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice." AUSA/DEO Anis will be available during polling hours at 302-893-5213.

The FBI will have agents ready across its field offices on election day for receiving allegations of fraud or other abuses. The local FBI office can be contacted at 410-265-8080.

Complaints about federal voting rights violations can be submitted directly to the Civil Rights Division via https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by calling 800-253-3931. In cases of violence or intimidation, contacting 911 is advised before reaching out to federal authorities.

Weiss concluded: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”