Election workers on the front line of American democracy
Nov 4, 2024
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In this engaging discussion, BBC News reporter Mike Wendling, known for his deep insights into American democracy, and election volunteer Chris Burlingame from Wisconsin, share their eye-opening experiences. They discuss the alarming rise in threats and intimidation faced by election workers, particularly after the January 6th riots. Chris reveals the emotional strain and fears of local officials dealing with misinformation, while Mike highlights the urgent need for rebuilding trust in the electoral process as they prepare for the upcoming elections.
Election workers are facing heightened threats and harassment, significantly impacting their safety and operations during the election process.
The spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories has fueled distrust in the electoral system, complicating the environment for local election officials.
Deep dives
The Challenges Faced by Election Workers
Election workers in the United States are navigating a significantly more hostile environment as they prepare for upcoming elections. The events of January 6, 2021, and the subsequent rise in conspiracy theories have heightened concerns for their safety. Many election officials report experiencing threats and harassment, with surveys indicating that nearly 40% have faced some form of intimidation. This increased scrutiny has necessitated changes in training protocols to equip them with skills to manage confrontational situations at polling places.
Misinformation and Its Impact on Democracy
The spread of misinformation surrounding elections has burgeoned, feeding into the distrust many Americans feel about the electoral process. Numerous unfounded claims about voting fraud, such as allegations of non-citizens voting or voting machines manipulating ballots, continue to circulate. This misinformation contributes to an atmosphere of fear for election workers, who are often on the receiving end of accusations and hostility from the public. Fact-checkers are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of disinformation, complicating efforts to ensure a fair electoral process.
Trust in the Electoral Process
Trust in the American electoral system has sharply declined, particularly among supporters of Donald Trump. Many Republican voters express profound skepticism about the integrity of elections, fearing widespread cheating but often maintaining trust in local officials they know personally. While efforts are underway to improve transparency and security in the electoral process, entrenched beliefs in conspiracy theories pose significant challenges. The situation reflects a broader divide, where individuals' views on election integrity are increasingly influenced by partisan perspectives rather than objective facts.
Harassment, threats and intimidation against local officials are increasing ahead of the election. When the majority of Americans vote tomorrow, it is these election workers that will come face to face with democracy… and the growing mistrust some feel towards the process.
The BBC’s Mike Wendling travelled to the battleground state of Wisconsin to hear about the fears of election workers there as the election drew closer. He tells Azadeh Moshiri about the climate of conspiracy and election denialism that has led to them being targeted.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Richard Moran and Tom Kavanagh
Sound engineers: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
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