New York Attorney General Letitia James has announced the availability of the Office of the Attorney General's (OAG) Election Protection Hotline for primary election day on June 25, 2024 according to Long Island.com.
The hotline serves as a critical resource, helping voters resolve issues and ensuring the accessibility and fairness of the election process.
On primary election day, the hotline will be operational from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with additional support available the following day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Voters can reach the hotline at (866) 390-2992, or submit complaints online at any time.
A comprehensive guide addressing frequently asked questions is also accessible to provide further assistance to voters.
Attorney General James emphasized the constitutional importance of the right to vote. "Access to the ballot box is the foundational right of our democracy," James stated, reflecting her commitment to safeguarding this principle.
The OAG Election Protection Hotline has been in service since November 2012 and has successfully handled a vast number of election-related complaints. It’s staffed by OAG attorneys and personnel who are well-equipped to provide guidance and support to voters.
The OAG has a history of taking legal action to protect voters, including preventing unauthorized voter registration removals and ensuring compliance with early voting laws. The hotline continues this tradition of voter protection.
Voters are reminded of their rights, which guarantee accessible elections. Polls on election day will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and any voter in line before closing must be allowed to vote. The hotline serves as an essential tool to uphold these rights, allowing voters to report any instances of coercion or intimidation.
"Our election protection hotline is available to address challenges voters face and provide helpful guidance,” Attorney General James stated. “Regardless of whether they choose to vote early, by mail, or on election day, I am proud that my office continues to protect New Yorkers' right to vote and encourage anyone experiencing problems to reach out to our hotline."
Complaints are managed in accordance with statutes enforced by the OAG, including the New York Voting Rights Act. The hotline's responsive approach ensures that election-related problems are addressed promptly and effectively.
The hotline is coordinated by the Voting Rights Section, led by Section Chief Lindsay McKenzie. Supporting McKenzie are Assistant Attorneys General Bethany Perskie, Edward Fenster, Derek Borchardt, Vivian Michael, and Rebecca Culley.
Senior Voting Rights Analysts Turquoise Baker and Jake Moore, along with Administrative Assistant Trainee 2 Lyric Landon, also contribute to the hotline’s operations. The Voting Rights Section is part of the Civil Rights Bureau, overseen by Chief Sandra Park and Deputy Chief Travis England.
The hotline operates under the broader Division for Social Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux and monitored by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. This organizational structure ensures that the hotline benefits from experienced leadership and a strong commitment to social justice.
Since its inception, the OAG Election Protection Hotline has made significant strides in ensuring free and fair elections in New York. The hotline has proven effective in resolving hundreds to thousands of election-related complaints in previous elections.
Legal actions taken by the OAG to prevent voter registration purges and uphold lawful early voting opportunities underscore the importance of the hotline. These efforts demonstrate the OAG’s ongoing commitment to protecting voter rights.
The availability of the hotline underlines the state’s pledge to uphold the integrity of the electoral process for all New Yorkers. It reinforces voters' confidence that their electoral experience will be fair and free from undue influence.
The hotline remains a vital resource for addressing the complexities voters may face. Assistance is readily available through both telephone contact and online complaint submission, ensuring that help is accessible to all voters as needed.
The OAG encourages voters to fully utilize these resources to ensure a smooth voting experience. For any issues encountered, voters are urged to call the hotline at (866) 390-2992 or make use of the online complaint system.
In conclusion, the availability and continued operation of the OAG Election Protection Hotline exemplify New York's dedication to maintaining a transparent and equitable voting process. Attorney General Letitia James reiterates the importance of voter participation and the right to a hassle-free voting experience.
Attorney General Letitia James has announced that the OAG Election Protection Hotline will be available for the June 25, 2024, primary election.
The hotline will assist voters with any issues or concerns they may face while voting, ensuring a fair and accessible election.
The hotline is operational from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM on June 25, 2024, and from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on June 26, 2024. Voters can contact the hotline at (866) 390-2992 or submit complaints online. The hotline, which has been operational since November 2012, is part of a broader commitment by the OAG to protect voter rights. The service is coordinated by a dedicated team within the Voting Rights Section of the Civil Rights Bureau.
