With some states taking precautions for possible problems on Election Day, Virginia Scope asked law enforcement across the commonwealth if any extra measures are being taken on Tuesday.
Washington State, Nevada, and Oregon have the National Guard on standby after some ballot drop boxes were set on fire recently.
In Virginia, officials are optimistic that Election Day will move forward without any problems, but some precautions are still being taken.
“Virginia State Police does not discuss its specific operational plans but there has been significant coordination across all levels of government,” said VSP Spokesperson Matt Demlein. “Virginians should expect a safe and secure election period.”
The Richmond Police Department does not expect any problems, but they will open an Emergency Operations Center for coordination and quick response if needed.
“The city of Richmond does plan to activate an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) so that city agencies can quickly collaborate on election day to ensure safe and fair elections in the city,” said Phon Hoonsan, a spokesperson for RPD. “There is currently no specific threat to Richmond elections, but the EOC will allow the city to quickly respond to any election disruptions.”
Arlington County Police Department said they will work to ensure it is a safe Election Day for voters.
“ACPD remains in contact with election officials and is prepared to respond to any reported incidents in the County,” said Ashley Savage, a spokesperson for ACPD. “Additionally, ACPD works collaboratively with our regional law enforcement partners at the local, state and national levels on identifying any possible safety concerns for our community.”
ACPD said there are no known threats, but officers will be conducting extra patrols around polling places.
“There are currently no known threats in Arlington County,” she continued. “To ensure public safety throughout the election, officers will conduct extra checks around polling places. however, they will not be stationed at polling places to balance the safety of voters with their privacy.”
Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s office said they are expecting a smooth Election Day in Virginia.
“The Governor expects a fair and secure Election Day in Virginia,” said Youngkin spokesperson Christian Martinez. “He appreciates the tremendous work our election officials and poll workers have done throughout the early voting period and encourages all eligible Virginians to participate in our democratic process by casting their ballot on Election Day.”
The polls open at 6 a.m. Tuesday morning and close at 7 p.m.
