National Guard activated in 15 states for Election Day, including Montana Politics

More than 250 National Guard personnel are providing support on Election Day across 15 states, as reported by CNN’s Ray Sanchez. Personnel have been mobilized in Alabama, Arizona, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. A little less than half of the troops are assisting with cybersecurity missions, while the rest are offering support based on local requests. Additionally, about 85 members are on standby in Colorado, Washington D.C., Florida, and Nevada, as mentioned by the National Guard Bureau. Over the weekend, the National Guard prepared for potential civil unrest due to the presidential election, with officials reporting incidents of ballot drop boxes being set on fire in Washington and Oregon, damaging or destroying hundreds of ballots. The National Guard’s presence is aimed at ensuring a safe and secure voting process amid concerns over possible disruptions or threats. Their deployment highlights the importance of safeguarding the democratic process and upholding the integrity of the election. The National Guard stands ready to respond to any challenges that may arise and assist local authorities in maintaining peace and order during this critical period. Their swift action and readiness demonstrate a commitment to protecting the rights and voices of voters across the country.

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