U.S. intelligence agencies have identified a significant threat to the upcoming elections, primarily from domestic extremists fueled by conspiracy theories related to elections, particularly the notion of widespread voter fraud and hostility toward political opponents. In a confidential Joint Intelligence Bulletin reviewed by a news source, officials from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security warned that domestic violent extremists are likely to engage in acts of terror aimed at disrupting the voting process, especially on Election Day and during Inauguration Day.
The report highlights potential targets, including candidates, elected officials, election workers, members of the media, and judges involved in election-related cases. Risks encompass physical attacks and violence at various polling locations, ballot drop boxes, voter registration sites, rallies, and campaign events.
This October bulletin, among several obtained through public records requests by a government transparency organization, reflects the heightened threat landscape that exists ahead of the election. Federal authorities typically issue these threat assessments to state and local law enforcement, a practice they adopted more vigorously after the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Previously, there was hesitance to distribute such reports, fearing they could be seen as infringing on free speech.
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A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security emphasized the ongoing sharing of information about threats posed by domestic extremists. The current environment is described as dynamic and fraught with potential violence, necessitating increased vigilance among law enforcement agencies.
The report indicates that the narrative of election fraud has gained traction among extremists, with a notable increase in threats against election workers, including instances of online harassment, swatting, and other forms of intimidation. Such threats are primarily observed in regions where election results are contested.
Amid these warnings, election officials have heightened security protocols in response. For instance, Maricopa County in Arizona, a hotspot for election conspiracy theories, has enacted stricter security measures for Election Day, which include metal detectors, armed guards, drones, and police snipers.
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Concerns have also been raised about “insider threats,” where individuals with authorized access to election processes may attempt to undermine them. Additionally, discussions in extremist online forums reflect ongoing disputes regarding the legitimacy of the 2020 election results, contributing to a climate of fear and uncertainty surrounding the upcoming elections.
The intelligence community’s reports highlight recent incidents of targeted violence from extremist groups, including white nationalists and other radical organizations, which have escalated in response to the current political climate. The overall landscape indicates an alarming increase in violent rhetoric and potential actions by extremists as the 2024 elections approach.
