WICHITA, Kansas – With the November 3 midterm election less than a week away, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) held a town‑hall meeting in Wichita to discuss steps for safeguarding election integrity in Kansas. The event, organized by the ACLU’s Kansas chapter, focused on the risk of interference in close races and outlined how volunteers can help monitor polling places.
ACLU’s Focus on Tight Races
“This year, we are keeping our eye on places like Iowa, Kansas, California and Maine,” said Deirdre Schifeling, a spokesperson for the ACLU. She explained that the organization selects states based on the competitiveness of races, noting that “close races are more likely to be targeted and have been in the past, because it’s easier to cast doubt and to try to interfere with a smaller number of ballots.”
According to a handful of recent polls, Kansas features several tight contests, prompting the ACLU to prioritize the state for monitoring efforts.
Volunteer Poll Monitors Trained
The ACLU reported that more than 300 volunteers have completed training to serve as poll monitors throughout Kansas. These monitors will be stationed at polling locations on Election Day to observe the voting process, report irregularities, and help ensure that voters can cast their ballots without intimidation.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Issues Parallel Warning
Ryan Kriegshauser, U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas, echoed the ACLU’s concerns, stating, “Our office will work to ensure that Kansans can cast their ballots without fear or worry that voting results will be tainted by fraud, intimidation or illegal ballots.” He encouraged anyone who suspects voter fraud or interference to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office. In cases of violence or intimidation, he advised callers to dial 911 first, and he also directed the public to the FBI’s online tip portal for reporting election‑related crimes.
What Voters Need to Know
Residents of Kansas are urged to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and rely on trained poll monitors to help maintain a transparent voting environment. The combined efforts of the ACLU and the U.S. Attorney’s Office aim to protect the integrity of the upcoming midterm elections and reassure voters that their voices will be heard.
Key Dates
- Midterm Election Day: November 3, 2026
- ACLU town‑hall meeting: October 28, 2026
For more information on how to become a poll monitor or to report concerns, Kansans can visit the ACLU Kansas website or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office directly.
Original reporting: KWCH 12 (Gray) – local — read the source article.