The Justice Department is preparing to keep elections free and fair in Eastern Washington

SPOKANE, Wash. – With the election approaching on November 5, election security is a top priority for the U.S. Department of Justice. Assistant U.S. Attorney Frieda Zimmerman is responsible for prosecuting all election interference cases in Eastern Washington.

“The Department of Justice always ensures that we have no issues with any type of voter intimidation or voter suppression, as well as threats against poll workers,” Zimmerman said.

Zimmerman emphasized the importance of maintaining election integrity.

“Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of our democracy and in the event that someone attempts to interfere, the Justice Department wants to ensure that these concerns are addressed and that people are brought to justice,” Zimmerman said.

Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs has previously highlighted his office’s efforts to monitor potential threats to county election offices, citing a scare that occurred during the 2023 election when envelopes containing fentanyl were sent to various county election offices.

“When we had the white powder incident, we were able to respond quickly, so quickly that the USPS was able to intercept some of those envelopes,” Hobbs said.

According to the Brennan Center for Justice, since 2020, 92% of local election officials have taken steps to improve security, a continuing trend echoed by local authorities.

For voters in Washington, ballots have already been distributed by mail and can be dropped off at a ballot box until 8 p.m. on Election Day. For assistance with voting locations or voter registration, individuals can contact their county elections office or VoteWA.Gov.

FOX28 Spokane©