The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched an investigation into false bomb threats that temporarily disrupted voting at polling locations across the United States this Tuesday, coinciding with the presidential election day. Although none of these threats were deemed credible, many appeared to originate from Russia, the agency reported.
The FBI's statement followed an announcement from Georgia authorities, who revealed that bomb threats had briefly halted voting at two polling centers that day. "The FBI is aware of bomb threats targeting polling stations in several states, many seemingly traced back to Russian email domains," the agency stated. "At this time, none of the threats have been found credible," the statement continued, urging the public to "remain vigilant."
Ensuring Electoral Security
Emphasizing its commitment to electoral security, the FBI reassured citizens it would maintain close collaboration with state and local law enforcement to address any threats to elections and safeguard communities as Americans exercise their right to vote.
The FBI encouraged people to report any suspicious activities to local or state authorities, or to reach out via their hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or online.
Georgia's Response to Threats
Prior to the FBI's confirmation, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger informed the media that the state had identified several false bomb threats interrupting voting at two polling sites, attributing them to Russian sources. "We've encountered threats originating from Russia. While it seems implausible, for public safety reasons, we always verify such claims and will continue to act responsibly when alerted to similar situations. The source was identified as Russia," Raffensperger stated, according to a CNN report.
He warned, "It seems they are scheming to disrupt a peaceful, fair, and accurate election. Anything that can divide us is seen as a victory for them."
These hoaxes led to the brief closure of polling stations at the Etris Community Center and Gullatt Elementary School in Union City, near Atlanta, as reported by Fulton County Police to CNN.
A Historic Election Day
On November 5, the United States is set to elect its next president in a historic and turbulent race between former Republican President Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris, the current vice president. In a tightly contested election that has polarized the nation, both candidates have garnered 49% support among registered voters, according to the latest NBC News national poll.
In the small town of Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, known for being the first to cast votes in U.S. elections since 1960, the election day kicked off with a surprising tie between the Republican candidate and his Democratic opponent, each securing three of the six votes cast at midnight.