Philadelphia's Election Task Force stepping up operations ahead of Election Day
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- We're one day away from the Primary Election, and Philadelphia officials are preparing for any and all problems at the ballot box. Mayor Jim Kenney says voter intimidation will not be tolerated.
The mayor made the announcement during a news conference Monday morning. He was joined by the District Attorney's Office, the City Commissioner's Office, Philadelphia police and the Election Task Force.
Kenney says the city's Election Task Force will make sure people casting their ballots can do so safely. He says the goal is to ensure every eligible Philadelphian is able to vote without harassment, intimidation, or violence.
"Loitering at polling places or drop boxes, trying to hinder or delay the election process, threatening or harassing poll workers or tampering with ballots or voting machines. Anyone who plans to obstruct the fair and free election will be held accountable," Kenney said.
Voters CBS News Philadelphia talked to are happy to know steps are being taken to protect their ballots.
"I want to have the sensation that things are in hand, that people who are there not only know what to do but are competent to do it," Tom Vernon, of Center City, said.
"The PPD is actually a member of the DA's Election day task force and our command staff will remain in direct communication with that task force tomorrow," Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw said.
The task force is an extension of the District Attorney's Office.
"We have a team of Assistant District Attorneys available to answer the phones and to hear about complaints that are happening throughout the day, and then dispatch teams out into the field to see what's happening," Brian Collins, the Assistant Philadelphia District Attorney, said.
Voters say it allows them to have peace of mind when they cast their ballots.
"It's been a tough choice and I spent a lot of time thinking about it.
Officials urge residents to call the District Attorney's Election Task Force Hotline at 215-686-9641 to report any issues related to voting.
Officials also say if you have a mail-in ballot that you have not mailed, you can place it into a ballot drop box. Several are placed around the city, including one outside of City Hall. You can view more drop-off locations here.
