NAACP Opens Investigation Into Department of Justice Election Monitoring Plan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 1, 2026
Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org
 

WASHINGTON – Today, the NAACP launched an investigation into the U.S. Department of Justice's plans to deploy over 1000 personnel to polling places during the 2026 midterm election cycle. 

The NAACP filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the Department's Civil Rights Division requesting records concerning the legal authority of the Civil Rights Division to deploy election monitors to investigate "vote fraud," a list of all jurisdictions where the Department plans to send election monitors, training materials for monitors, any information on the qualifications to serve as an election monitor, information on the Department's plans to adhere to state laws that prohibit or restrict the activity of monitors, and more.

Kristen Clarke, NAACP General Counsel, shared the following statement:

"Voter intimidation tactics are unacceptable and an affront to our democracy. The ability to cast a ballot, free from fear or harassment by government officials, is a basic civil right. We will not stand by idly as this administration orchestrates a scheme to suppress voting rights and discourage voter participation through mass deployment of federal election monitors. At every turn, this administration has shut down voting rights cases, filed baseless lawsuits, and worked to restrict access to the ballot. All eligible voters have the right to cast their ballot free from fear or harassment by a federal government that is bent on denying voters access to the polls this election season."

This request follows the DOJ's recent deployment of election monitors to nearly a dozen polling locations across America during this year's primary elections – and in some cases – with little to no notice to the public. Courts have recognized that unnecessary law enforcement and government presence at polling sites can cause fear, create confusion, impose burdens on election officials, and have a chilling or coercive effect on voters.

The NAACP remains committed to empowering voters and fighting against voter intimidation and disenfranchisement at every level. We continue our work to ensure justice and to prevent federal overreach intended to keep eligible voters away from the ballot box. For more information, visit naacp.org. The full request letter is available here.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.