US voters facing intimidation have official reporting channels during US midterm elections; how to contact the Justice Department and election officials

As the US midterm elections approach, voters should know what to do if they witness intimidation, suspected voter fraud or other election-related crimes. Official reporting channels are available through the US Department of Justice and through state and local election offices. The process depends on the type of violation. Knowing where to report a problem can help voters raise concerns about their rights and the integrity of the election process. The inputs are taken from USAGov.

How can US voters report intimidation or voter suppression

Voters who experience or witness intimidation, threats or other violations of their voting rights can contact the US Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division, Voting Section.


The DOJ can be reached at 18002533931. Reports can also be submitted through its online reporting system. Voters may alternatively contact their state, local or territorial election office to report a violation.

Voters have the right to cast their ballots in private. Although a person may ask how another person intends to vote, voters do not have to disclose voters' choices.

Intimidation, coercion and threats are among the ways that can interfere with a person's ability to vote. Anyone who witnesses or experiences conduct can use the available official channels to report it.

Where should suspected voter fraud be reported

Anyone who suspects voter fraud should contact their state, local or territorial election office. Other reporting options include a local FBI office, a local US attorney's office or the Public Integrity Section of the DOJ's Criminal Division.

Voter fraud and voter registration fraud can include illegally casting a ballot in the name of someone who has died or moved away. Many states have strengthened voter identification requirements as part of efforts to prevent such activity. Election-related crimes can also involve campaign finance violations. These include cases in which candidates accept contributions that exceed legal limits or come from donors who are not permitted to provide them under the law.

Understanding the different types of election crimes

Federal election crimes generally fall into three broad categories:

• campaign finance crimes
• voter and registration fraud
• civil rights violations

Each category involves different conduct. Identifying the nature of a suspected violation can help voters determine where to report it.

The DOJ's federal election fact sheet and the FBI's Election Crimes and Security guide provide further information about election fraud, intimidation and suppression. State and local election offices can also direct voters to the appropriate reporting process.