Maryland State Wire

In a significant development, Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland signed the Protecting Election Officials Act of 2024 into law yesterday. This legislation, which received bipartisan support in both chambers of the Assembly, introduces a new misdemeanor charge for individuals who threaten election officials or their families.

Joanne Antoine, the executive director of Common Cause Maryland, expressed her support for the new law by stating, "Our election workers deserve this victory. Here in Maryland, we don’t just talk about the importance of democracy — we defend it, along with all the officials who help to make it possible." She further added, “We are tremendously grateful to Gov. Moore for his leadership on this critical issue."

According to a recent poll conducted by the Brennan Center, 45% of local election officials admitted to fearing for the safety of their colleagues. This alarming statistic has led to a significant number of election administrators across the country leaving their profession. The enactment of the Protecting Election Officials Act in Maryland aims to reassure election workers that they have the collective support of the state.

The move to safeguard election officials in Maryland reflects a broader effort to address the increasing challenges faced by individuals involved in the electoral process. Common Cause Maryland's backing of the new law underscores the importance of protecting those who play a crucial role in upholding democracy.

The Protecting Election Officials Act of 2024 serves as a testament to Maryland's commitment to defending the integrity of its electoral system and ensuring the safety of those responsible for its smooth functioning.