The breakdown of the voting machines in Westchester was disturbing but there are many heroes to thank for a peaceful election.
Early on, right-wing influencer Laura Loomer claimed that the Westchester machine errors were part of a larger Democratic plot to “steal the election.” We dodged a bullet when both congressional candidates immediately came out in support of the Board of Elections.There were no demonstrations or disruptions. Incumbent Mike Lawler’s campaign stated “..every ballot will be counted. Stay on line and vote. Do not leave the polls without voting.” Cait Conley said “.there are technical issues being worked on diligently by the Board of Elections in a bipartisan manner…Please stay in line and have your voice heard as they work to resolve the issue”.
There was concern about the Federal Government interfering in the election with threats of ICE at the polls or seizure of voting machines. New York Attorney General Tish James participated with AGs across the country to war-game different scenarios and prepare in response to those threats.
Despite threats of fines or imprisonment, election officials across the country stood up and protected the voter rolls.
At least 34 federal district court decisions either temporarily halted or permanently blocked efforts by the administration to interfere in elections,
Thanks also to the poll workers who faithfully showed up and worked the extra long day.
The unprecedented level of awareness of the threats to the election was thanks to groups like Common Cause, No Kings and the NAACP, who raised awareness and trained observers.
Thanks also goes to you voters who came out and voted in record numbers.
But the possibility remains that the machine breakdown in Westchester could have been a voter suppression tactic. That needs to be thoroughly investigated. In the current political climate, it’s not enough to call it a “glitch.”
Thanks!
Allegra Dengler