Scranton Reporter

United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam announced that the Criminal Division Chief Bruce D. Brandler, along with Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Consiglio, Geoffrey MacArthur, and James Buchanan, will lead efforts in connection with the Justice Department's Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024 general election.

Criminal Chief Brandler is appointed to oversee the District’s Election Day Program. AUSAs Consiglio, Buchanan, and MacArthur will act as District Election Officers for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg, Scranton, and Williamsport Offices. They are tasked with managing complaints related to voting rights concerns and election fraud in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters.

“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” stated U.S. Attorney Karam. He emphasized that election officials should work without facing unlawful threats.

The Department of Justice aims to deter discrimination at polls and threats against election officials through its longstanding Election Day Program. This program ensures public confidence by providing local contacts within the Department for reporting federal election law violations.

Federal law protects against crimes like threatening violence against election staff, intimidating voters, buying votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, or marking ballots against voters' wishes. The Voting Rights Act allows voters to mark their own ballot or receive assistance if needed due to disability or language barriers.

“The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy," said U.S. Attorney Karam. "We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose."

To address complaints on voting rights concerns during elections effectively, DEOs will be on duty while polls are open. Contact numbers for each AUSA/DEO are provided for public use.

Additionally, FBI special agents will be available across field offices nationwide on election day for allegations of fraud or abuses. The local FBI field office contact number is 215-418-4000.

Complaints about possible violations of federal voting rights laws can also be made directly to the Civil Rights Division via phone or online complaint form.

In cases involving violence or intimidation crimes at polling places, calling 911 immediately is advised before contacting federal authorities since state and local police usually respond faster in emergencies.