NAACP Takes Emergency Action To Block Federal Law Enforcement Agents From Polling Sites

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2026
Contact: communications@naacpnet.org

WASHINGTON – The NAACP has filed an emergency Temporary Restraining Order in NAACP v Blanche to block federal law enforcement agents from serving as federal "election monitors." The action follows the release of details regarding the DOJ's election monitoring scheme, obtained by the NAACP through litigation under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). 

While the DOJ has confirmed that it does not plan to deploy FBI or ICE to polling sites, the Department arbitrarily decided to deploy agents from the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and ATF. All of these entities are law enforcement components that fall under the Department.

"The law is clear - law enforcement agents can have an intimidating effect on voters, especially Black voters, and they have no role and no right to be inside our polling places," said Kristen Clarke, the general counsel for the NAACP. "We are taking action to ensure that the path to the ballot box remains free from harassment and intimidation for all voters on Election Day. This Justice Department may want us to be afraid, but that's only because they are afraid of us and the power of our votes. The NAACP urges every voter to cast a ballot if they have not already done so."

This latest action is being led by the NAACP, Advancement Project, and LDF. 

"Let's call the DOJ's veiled attempt at fearmongering what it is, it's voter intimidation, and we know that the Voting Rights Act clearly states that any attempts to intimidate voters from practicing their right to vote are illegal. Our team at Advancement Project is working across the country to observe the polls and protect the right to vote.  We're not backing down from the fight for free and fair elections, and encourage communities to vote with confidence," said Advancement Project Executive Director Carmen Daugherty.

As of today, more than 54 million Americans have already voted in this election.

NAACP v Blanche — challenging this DOJ's plans to deploy 1,000 "election monitors" — is just one of the numerous major voting rights cases brought by the NAACP this cycle. The organization is fighting to defend and strengthen the freedom to vote, helping ensure that all communities can fully participate in our democracy with confidence.

If voters encounter issues at the polls, they are encouraged to call 866-OUR-VOTE for immediate support or to file a report at NAACP.org/vote to notify election protection lawyers with the NAACP.

The NAACP's nationwide field operation is working around the clock to mobilize more than 6.5 million Black voters across battleground states. More than 52,000 volunteers with the NAACP are also knocking doors, making calls, and engaging with infrequent voters in their communities. To learn more, visit naacp.org. 

About the 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.