Omaha, Nebraska finds itself at the center of a politically charged landscape as the November elections approach. A nail-biter of a congressional race, dueling abortion measures, and the possibility of Nebraska’s unique electoral vote split impacting the presidential election have created a sense of anxiety and tension among residents. In this bipartisan city, residents are uniquely positioned to both witness the threat of political violence and work together to combat it.
Recent incidents of arson attacks on ballot drop boxes and threats against election poll workers across the country have highlighted the growing concern over election-related violence. Federal charges against individuals making threats towards public officials have reached a 12-year high, with no end in sight. The rise in criminal cases is straining law enforcement resources and posing a threat to democracy.
Foreign actors, including the Islamic State and hostile governments like Russia, Iran, and China, are also seeking to interfere in U.S. elections to exacerbate divisions within society. The U.S. Intelligence Community has issued warnings and taken action to disrupt foreign influence operations targeting the election.
To address these threats, a coordinated effort at the federal, state, and local levels is required, as well as a push for collaboration in American public life. The Nebraska-based National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center (NCITE) is working to provide research and information to help counter these threats and support public servants, especially election workers, who are on the front lines.
As the nation faces uncertainty heading into the elections, Omaha’s politically mixed landscape offers a sense of promise and resilience against forces seeking to divide the country. By working together and staying vigilant, residents can help protect democracy and combat threats both within and outside the United States.
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