Nashville city leader describes increased security measures during early voting

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – A Metro council member tells News 2 that while people might not notice, there are additional safety precautions for early voting locations.

Following the 2020 election, Green Hills Council Member Jeff Preptit said threats and intimidation were increasing at both the state and federal level.

“We have seen state and federal trends of acts of threats and intimidation not only against people coming out to vote, but also against our election workers,” said District 25 Council Member Jeff Preptit. There have been a number of situations in which the Secretary of State’s office reported credible threats against state and local election officials. »

These past threats and acts of intimidation have prompted law enforcement to step up security measures.

Where to Vote in Early Voting in Nashville

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD) told News 2 there have been no security issues at early voting locations, but they are not leaving security to chance.

“The Office of Emergency Management, along with MNPD, is working with our state and federal partners to ensure there are robust emergency plans and a robust response,” Preptit explained.

An MNPD spokesperson said details of security measures currently in place at election sites are confidential. Preptit told News 2 that confidentiality maintains security plans.

“We are not creating a situation where people will be able to target our response because what we know is that there is a deep-rooted infiltration that these groups seek to not only intimidate voters but also stifle our security response “, he added. ” said Preptit.

Davidson County Sample Ballot

“It’s important to feel safe because you don’t feel intimidated. That’s the most important thing,” said Keashye Durman, an early voter. “When we feel safe, we feel free.”

“One of the things we have to deal with here in the South is we have a legacy of legitimate voter intimidation,” Preptit said. “So you have to understand that legacy throughout the South and understand where we are as a nation. We need to make sure we do our best and protect democracy.

Some security procedures are not new, such as campaign materials or registration inside the polling place. Additionally, campaign signs, merchandise and voter canvassing are limited to 100 feet from the polling location.

“Especially in Nashville and here in Green Hills, people feel safe,” said Tennessean voter Hallie Brannick. “I believe Nashvillians are coming together to make sure there is no harassment.”

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“There is a clear line that cannot be crossed when it comes to any threats or acts of intimidation or anything that is intended to dissuade someone from voting or voting their preference,” Preptit said.

“I think if people start to feel unsafe, they’ll stay home, and we don’t need anyone to stay home,” concluded early voter Dawn Robinson. “We need them to come forward.”

In Davidson County, voters can vote early at one of 13 different locations to avoid lines on Election Day. To find out when early voting locations open, click here.

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