In Phoenix, Arizona, one voting location is known for its stringent security measures, which include barbed wire, six-foot barred gates, and badge-access doors. This location is situated in a public school district office, and the superintendent explained these measures as necessary precautions, prompting his decision to keep the site available as a polling station. The superintendent, wishing to remain anonymous due to increased threats, noted that the district formerly had 17 polling sites but now operates only one, which is the secure district office.
Since the 2020 presidential election, efforts have been made to reinforce the physical infrastructure of buildings used for voting and ballot counting. While some reduce their participation in the electoral process, others remain involved. The superintendent further remarked on the heightened rhetoric surrounding elections, which influenced his decision, emphasizing the need to avoid safety incidents.
As Arizona voters cast their ballots either in person or by mail, the security of election sites remains a crucial concern. Maricopa County, encompassing 60% of Arizona’s voters and over 4 million residents, is a significant factor in determining the White House’s control. Some county officials, however, express apprehension about the current situation.
The superintendent mentioned the necessity of reminding voters to follow state election laws that prohibit weapons and electioneering within 75 feet of a voting site, showcasing their commitment to maintaining a single, highly secure voting location. Despite the challenges, he emphasized the importance of schools as community pillars and contributors.
Other educational institutions and election offices face similar threats, with some schools opting out of serving as polling sites. Arizona Democrats recently closed a field office in Tempe following multiple vandalism incidents involving firearms. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reported unusual threats targeting election workers in several states, including Arizona. Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer acknowledged the challenge of securing enough polling sites, as schools largely withdraw and efforts shift to finding alternative venues like churches and community centers.
To fill the gaps left by schools, Richer and his team reached out for additional polling locations, renting spaces as needed. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona responded by offering 30 sites, an increase from previous elections. Church spokesperson Candice Copple highlighted their commitment to civic duties and providing convenient voting locations.
Dan Shkapich, president of the Chandler West Stake, expressed the importance of civic engagement through their meetinghouses serving as polling locations. This initiative is aligned with supporting societal improvement by facilitating voter participation.
Dianna Villanueva-Saucedo, associate vice chancellor at the Center for Excellence in Inclusive Democracy within the Maricopa Community College system, expressed enthusiasm for offering critical services to the community. The college, like the LDS Church, is seeing more of its locations utilized for voting this year. Villanueva-Saucedo emphasized that providing such services fulfills a part of their mission to support civic life and democracy.
Both Copple and Villanueva-Saucedo reported no threats or intimidation but acknowledged similar incidents elsewhere. Villanueva-Saucedo highlighted existing security protocols that allow the college to focus on nonpartisan voter education, enhancing their contribution with increased vote centers this year.
This article incorporates contributions from Ailsa Chang, Noah Caldwell, and William Troop.
