Hochul Critiques Federal Election Security on CBS
During an appearance on CBS’s “Face the Nation” on Sunday, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York expressed concerns about President Donald Trump allegedly compromising the federal government’s role in election security.
A brief excerpt follows:
MARGARET BRENNAN: With about 100 days until Election Day, I want to discuss election security. You’re aware that elections are primarily managed by states rather than the federal government. Are you receiving the same level of election security support that has been available in recent years?
HOCHUL: Unfortunately, no. The federal government seems to be dismantling the very protections we depend on to safeguard our democracy. Voting is fundamentally a right for the people, and it’s critical for determining our leadership. The issue isn’t merely that the federal government is objecting; it’s actually worried about electoral outcomes, and that’s quite concerning. We need to keep that issue front and center. We’ve enacted the John Right to Vote Act, which enforces stringent protections, including new laws preventing ICE agents from appearing at polling locations.
BRENAN: Understood.
HOCHUL: Can you imagine the fear that might grip Black and brown communities on Election Day? This is a tactic aimed at intimidating voters, and it will threaten the integrity of our elections. Trump is presenting a massive distraction by questioning legitimate results. We’re doing everything we can to protect our elections, but we can’t rely solely on federal support these days…
BRENAN: But—
HOCHUL: —Because it feels like the federal government is encroaching on all fronts.
BRENAN: Federal law prohibits armed operatives from being present at election sites. Attorney General candidate Todd Blanche claims he will adhere to the law, yet he seems wary. What about that?
HOCHUL: They don’t really adhere to the law, Margaret. Their compliance is questionable. So, we’ll have to ensure New York State is following the proper protocols. I have little faith in what they claim. The next day, they might just say, “Oh, I didn’t mean that,” or “Sorry about that.” These are the same people responsible for violence in our cities, so I’m very skeptical of their assurances.
