Missouri DOJ Election Surveillance Challenge

Lawsuit filed by the State of Missouri, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) and Missouri Secretary of State John Ashcroft (R) against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and U.S. Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division Kristen Clarke challenging the DOJ’s intent to monitor Missouri polling places for the November 2024 general election. On Nov. 1, 2024, the DOJ issued a press release declaring it would send federal observers to staff polling locations across 27 states, including Missouri, on Election Day. The plaintiffs argue the DOJ’s decision violates the Administrative Procedures Act (APA) and ask the court to ban the DOJ from sending federal staff to polling locations in Missouri.  

Missouri officials filed their complaint on Nov. 4, 2024.

STATUS: On Nov. 4, following a hearing, the judge denied Missouri’s motion for a temporary restraining order. The Department of Justice may continue to monitor Missouri polling places for the 2024 general election.

Last updated: November 5, 2024 9:04 am EST