North Carolina Investigates 16 Complaints of Voter Intimidation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Monday, Nov. 7, the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE) confirmed that it is currently investigating 16 reports of voter intimidation, harassment or interference. The alleged incidents took place during the state’s early voting period and occurred in multiple counties, including populous Guilford and Wake. The NCSBE could refer any complaints to law enforcement for prosecution.

When announcing the investigations, NCSBE Executive Director Karen Brinson Bell called for civility during the voting process. “We want people to be able to cast their ballot without fear of intimidation or interference,” Brinson Bell said. “We ask that people recognize that these are bipartisan officials who have been trained to do the job of a precinct official, and they are going to ensure that the voters are able to cast their ballots.”

Reports of voter intimidation have arisen in other states. In Arizona, a federal judge ordered a right-wing group to limit monitoring of drop boxes after at least 18 complaints were forwarded to federal law enforcement.