LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — With Election Day on Nov. 5, Governor Joe Lombardo is taking extra precautions to protect voters by implementing National Guard personnel to assist election officials and law enforcement in case problems arise at the polls.
“Everyone should have the right to vote and we should feel safe when we do it,” early voter, Cary Silbert said. “It’s crazy how our country is so divided, and the tension is high.”
Governor Lombardo stated that while he doesn’t expect the National Guard to be deployed, it’s vital that we as a state are prepared with a plan in place.
“I do feel like it’s needed based off of what I’ve seen on the internet, but luckily I didn’t experience anything here,” early voter, Jasmine Barnes shared with 8 News Now.
60 members of the National Guard will be activated on standby status and stationed at Nevada National Guard facilities in both Carson City and in Las Vegas.
Some Nevadans agreed that the fear of going out on Election Day played a key role in their decision to vote early.
“I don’t feel comfortable going out on Election Day. I just don’t know how people’s attitudes and feelings are going to be, and while I’ve never been harassed in line, that thought goes through my head,” early voter, Carmencita Labrake told 8 News Now.
The National Guard will be available to assist in traffic enforcement and building security too.
In addition, the US Attorney announced that civil rights division personnel will be available on Nov. 5 for questions and complaints from the public related to possible violations of federal voting rights laws.
Reports can be made through www.civilrights.justice.gov or by calling toll-free at 800-253-3931.
