Franchise is power

Election day is coming in just a week and Americans all over the country are going to go to the polls to cast their vote.

Donald Trump has called for his supporters to act as “poll watchers” and make sure the election isn’t “stolen” from him. We all know that this is really a call to intimidate women, blacks, Hispanics, Asians, non-white Caucasians or any other voter that’s not a white male.

If you observe voter intimidation or any other behavior that prevents access to the polls, call your local FBI field office . Also, call your local campaign field office ; the Clinton campaign has lawyers volunteering that can take action locally to protect the vote. You can also (866) OUR-VOTE and the Department of Justice at (800) 253-3931 toll-free.

If you observe violence or threats of violence, call your local police department or 9-1-1.

Don’t wear anything that advertises your political affiliation or candidate; it may be illegal to do so in your state.

Be aware of the voting laws of your state, including if an ID is required, but remember this: you have a right and a duty to vote. Be ready if somebody tries to disenfranchise you.

Finally, Republicans have historically run disinformation campaigns to suppress Democratic voters. Make sure to check any suspicious information with your county election office or secretary of state’s office.

Pennsylvania residents:

You can be challenged by poll watchers about your residence and identity. Bring your required ID and try to go in groups to the polls as you must have somebody sign an affidavit of your identity and residence if you are challenged. If you cannot get anybody to sign for you, you may have to vote by provisional ballot. Also, only a credentialed poll watcher for one of the campaigns can challenge you legally; if you observe a vigilante, call the numbers above and report them.

If you are in line before polls close, you have a right to vote. Do not leave the line if “poll watchers” delay the process.

And make sure to vote out GOP lawmakers in your state assembly so that you can get rid of these crazy laws! Just this year the Pennsylvania Republicans have been hard at work expanding the ability of poll watchers from out of county to delay access to the polls.

Roger Stone has created an organization called “voteprotectors”, a group of fake journalists complete with ID badges. He also has plans for fake exit pollsters to intimidate voters. Neither of these groups can challenge your right to vote; if you observe them harassing voters, call the hotlines above.