Federal Monitors to Observe Adams County Polls

Colorado voters will face an unusual presence at polling places on November 3 as the U.S. Department of Justice deploys election monitors to Adams County. The move follows a dispute between federal officials and the state over the scope of these observers' access to voting facilities.

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division contacted Adams County Clerk Josh Zygielbaum and Secretary of State Jenna Griswold on October 20. Griswold responded on October 22, stating that federal monitors could not enter polling locations without direct authorization from her office. She requested details on the monitors' purpose before granting access. DOJ attorney Jake Bachand said the team would visit 12 to 16 sites to check for accessible voting machines and bilingual poll workers. He added that the monitors would not wear suits or display credentials to avoid signaling their presence to the public.

On October 29, the Secretary of State’s office proposed a compromise. Monitors could enter if accompanied by a state-appointed observer, stood in a designated section, and spoke only to the lead official at the site. The DOJ declined this offer. In an email response, the department stated its monitors would remain outside polling places and stay within 100 feet of the building, consistent with state law.

Kiersten Pels, a DOJ spokesperson, explained the selection of Adams County in an email. She cited the county’s coverage under Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act for Spanish language assistance. Pels also clarified that the department is not sending federal law enforcement to the polls. The DOJ is monitoring other Democratic-leaning areas as well, including six counties in Georgia, two in Indiana, and two in Virginia.

State officials remain cautious. Griswold stated in a press release that it is illegal for anyone, including the DOJ, to intimidate or interfere with voters outside of voter centers. Matt Crane, executive director of the Colorado County Clerks Association, told Newsline on October 27 that clerks are prepared for potential interference. He noted that the association is ensuring voters can cast ballots accurately through 7 p.m. on election night.

Aly Belknap, executive director of Colorado Common Cause, criticized the DOJ’s rejection of the state’s offer. She said the decision suggests the department wants to block eligible voters rather than serve as neutral observers. Belknap noted that Just Vote Colorado volunteers will be present at Adams County polling places in yellow shirts to distribute rights information and report issues.

Federal law limits the presence of armed officers at polls. A law dating to 1865 prohibits members of the military from having troops or armed men at election sites unless necessary to repel enemies. Voters are not required to answer questions from monitors. If a voter feels intimidated, they should alert the nearest polling official and record details such as agency markings, times, and witness names.