While Indiana election polling sites cannot have police stationed inside, Monroe County Clerk Nicole Browne said in an email regular police patrols of the surrounding areas will continue throughout Election Day, allowing for a quick response if assistance is needed.
“We are very fortunate to have the support of local law enforcement agencies as we prepare for Election Day security,” she said in the email.
She said if police need to be involved in various scenarios, they will discuss with local law enforcement to ensure they are following best practices.
Kevin Getz, public information officer for the Indiana State Police Bloomington district, said in an email that no special security patrols are to be conducted by Indiana State Police on Election Day.
IUPD Public Information Officer Hannah Skibba said in an email IUPD will monitor events across campus and will appropriately respond to any issues as they arise in the same manner it normally does. On-campus polling will be located in the Indiana Memorial Union on Election Day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
IUPD encourages the campus community to report suspicious or criminal activity to police by calling or texting 911. Students, faculty and staff can also use the Rave Guardian App to access safety resources, police and anonymous reporting.
Browne said ballot security at the polls is imperative to successful elections in Monroe County. She said since 2020, Monroe County has worked with the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. The county has implemented some of the CISA’s recommendations to enhance security at satellite sites, where residents can vote no matter the precinct, and polling places.
The CISA released an election mail security public service announcement Oct. 22 saying all voters are safe and secure, and the organization is working with local polling centers to ensure that each and every vote will be counted for.
Browne said all county clerks in Monroe County received updates and guidance on election security at annual and semi-annual conferences. All poll workers completed mandatory training, including security at the polls prior to working on Election Day.
According to a Brennan Center survey, more than half of election officials are concerned about physical safety and harassment. The survey also showed that more than one in four officials worries about being assaulted at home or work.
Election Day is Nov. 5.
