Providence Reporter

United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha has announced that Assistant United States Attorney Amy R. Romero will lead the efforts of his office in connection with the Justice Department’s Election Day Program for the upcoming general election on November 5, 2024. Romero has been appointed as the District Election Officer for Rhode Island and will oversee complaints related to voting rights concerns, threats to election officials, and election fraud.

Cunha emphasized the importance of a fair electoral process: “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 critical role in preventing discrimination and intimidation at polling stations, addressing threats against election workers, and combating election fraud. The department aims to maintain public confidence by providing local contacts for reporting potential federal election law violations.

Federal laws protect against crimes such as threatening violence towards election officials, voter intimidation or bribery, vote buying or selling, impersonating voters, altering vote counts, ballot stuffing, and unauthorized marking of ballots. The Voting Rights Act ensures voters can mark their own ballots or receive assistance if needed due to disability or language barriers.

Cunha reiterated the significance of protecting voting rights: “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.” He added that Romero would be available during polling hours at (401) 709-5068 for any related complaints.

Additionally, FBI special agents across various field offices will be available on Election Day for reports of fraud or other abuses. The local FBI office can be contacted at (401) 272-8310.

Complaints regarding federal voting rights violations can also be directed to the Civil Rights Division via their website or by calling 800-253-3931.

Cunha called upon citizens’ cooperation: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.” In cases involving violence or intimidation at polling places, individuals are advised to contact local authorities immediately by calling 911 before reaching out to federal agencies.

For more information about Cunha’s Election Day Program announcement, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw02Lr2DyCA&t=16s