#vote #VoterSuppression #VoterIntimidation #EarlyVoting #VoteByMail
They’re giving fair warning.
They are saying that ICE agents will be at the polling places during the 2026 midterm elections.
They’re hoping to discourage voter turnout, fearing a landslide defeat for the current party in power if too many people vote.
But, if you’re among those who are not happy with what’s going on, the most powerful weapon you have is your vote.
Don’t be afraid to vote. They can’t stop you from voting. It may take courage to vote in some places, but you must summon that courage.
If you don’t want to vote on Election Day, vote early, if you can. Or, if it’s available to you, vote by mail. Visit your local election office well ahead of time to discern your options. If your area has a special election prior to November, vote then, too.
By any means that you have, VOTE!
Take your example of courage from the protesters in Minnesota, Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland and elsewhere.
In Minnesota, they are braving harsh winter weather to stand in the streets, risk their lives and tell the overwhelming contingent of federal agents that they don’t want them there.
They are helping their neighbors who legitimately fear capture and deportation – often illegitimate deportation – stay safe and stay fed.
If we all turn out to vote, we will show that there are more of us than there are of federal agents. They will not be able to stop ALL of us – and they legally cannot stop ANY of us.
You may have to brave long lines at the polls if you have to vote on Election Day. There may even be some lines at early-voting locations on some days.
These are inconvenient, to be sure. But, casting your vote is paramount. Life as you know it could depend on it.
Local and state officials who, by law, run elections, have to stand firm. They have to make sure EVERY legal vote is counted. They also have to protect polling places from the illegitimate presence of federal officials.
They have to protect voters from intimidation from federal officials or others seeking a certain outcome.
You have months to prepare to vote in November. You have months to choose your preferred candidates carefully.
If you want things to change, vote for candidates that will help enable that change.
If you’re among those who like what you see from your federal government, you certainly have the right to elect those who’ll preserve the status quo.
Many people see unnecessary cruelty. Many people see unnecessary injury and even death.
Those people want that to change. Therefore, it’s incumbent on those people to vote by whatever means suits them. Not voting is NOT an option.
The legitimate power of the vote can negate the illegitimate power of those who want to suppress the vote.
Don’t let them. Brave whatever you have to brave to vote.
There is plenty of time to plan. Use that time, and your vote, wisely.
Peter