Applaud Arlington County for Fighting to Protect Voters

Every eligible American deserves to cast their ballot without fear or intimidation—and Arlington County, Virginia, is taking legal action to protect that right ahead of the November midterm elections.

Arlington County has filed a federal lawsuit challenging Trump administration policies that it says could allow armed ICE and FBI agents to conduct enforcement operations at polling places. The county is asking a judge to block armed federal personnel from operating at voting sites, ballot drop boxes, and curbside voting locations, except in the narrow circumstances permitted by federal law.

The lawsuit points to a Civil War-era federal law that generally prohibits armed federal personnel from being stationed at election sites. Arlington officials say the threat of federal intervention has already forced them to develop emergency plans, coordinate with local law enforcement, and prepare for situations they have never faced before. County Board Chair Matt de Ferranti has emphasized the importance of protecting voters from fear and disruption while preserving confidence in free and fair elections.

Arlington's legal challenge joins efforts by civil rights organizations, voting rights advocates, and other local governments seeking to prevent intimidation at the polls. By taking action before Election Day, county officials are working to ensure that voters can participate safely and that elections remain under the authority of the state and local officials responsible for administering them.

Add your name to applaud Arlington County for challenging the presence of armed federal agents at polling places, standing up against voter intimidation, and fighting to protect every eligible American's right to vote!