A Plan to Safeguard Our Voting Rights

In the span of a week, President Trump urged the Republican Party to seize control of the elections; pundit Steve Bannon said, “We’re gonna have ICE surround the polls…We’ll never again allow an election to be stolen;” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the White House wouldn’t rule out the presence of ICE agents at the polls; and in an unusual move, the FBI asked election officials from all fifty states to “attend a briefing on midterm election “preparations.””

Note that Bannon deployed an informational strategy called reflexive control. He’s trying to manipulate our reactions to his announcement so we inflict damage on ourselves (e.g., spreading unsubstantiated rumors about ICE or other law enforcement near the polls). Don’t fall for it.

It’s illegal under state and federal law for federal forces or the military to be at polling places, but we can and should be proactive about safeguarding our voting rights. Below are concrete actions we can take right now at the government, community, and individual levels.

Government support

Virginia and local governments must do everything within their power to ensure we can vote safely and without fear of intimidation. Federal law will be on their side in the event of extraordinary circumstances. If needed, they can communicate the message that they will protect voters while we exercise our right to vote.

On 2/6/26, A Democratic House subcommittee advanced bills that would limit ICE activity in Virginia, including the restriction of “immigration enforcement near polling places.” Attorney General Jay Jones could seek emergency injunctions against federal agents who attempt to intimidate voters, including if it happens on election day. And Virginia already has a Voting Rights Act.

Several secretaries of state have met to plan for election interference from the Trump Administration, including training in case immigration agents show up at polls. They’re also monitoring attacks on mail ballots and educating members of Congress about election needs.

Have questions or want to share your thoughts about voting safety with our local and state governments about this issue? Use this 5 Calls script to Fight the Trump Administration’s Election Interference. Here’s who to contact:

• Your state representatives
• Your federal representative in Congress; Senator Kaine, and Senator Warner.
• Your representative on the Henrico County Board of Supervisors
• Governor Spanberger’s office

You can also encourage your federal representatives to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

Election administration resources

Election administrators can ensure that legal election observers are sufficiently trained to document illegal intimidation near the polls.

Contact the Henrico County Office of Voter Registration and Elections and the Virginia Department of Elections and let them know you support voter safety at the polls.

Want to do more? Become a poll greeter or other election worker.

Legal resources

If anyone tries to intimidate voters at the polls, there needs to be a mechanism for individuals and communities who are disenfranchised by these activities to get legal assistance quickly. Here are a few to explore:

• Know your rights in the event that ICE agents approach you.
• Learn about organizations that can help immigrants.
• Explore the Henrico County Multicultural Engagement Division.
• Here are actions to take if you encounter problems on election day.

Community action

Community groups and non-profit organizations can join forces to amplify information about our voting rights and help prepare voters for potential intimidation at the polls.

Join groups like the Virginia League of Women Voters and read their guide about taking action on immigration enforcement.

Volunteer with county party committees that support safe, free, and fair elections. Support mutual aid groups and organizations like the Virginia Coalition of Immigrant Rights.

Talk to your friends and neighbors about the issue. Use your social media platforms to get out the word about protecting our voting rights. Write a letter to the editor in support of our right to vote without intimidation.

Make a plan to vote

Voting itself is a great way to overcome illegal federal interference in our democracy. Know your voting rights.

If you have safety concerns, consider voting by mail or voting early. Curbside voting is an option for those with accessibility needs. Vote with a friend or family group to boost social support and mitigate intimidation.