The American Democracy Minute Radio Report & Podcast for March 13, 2025
Nevada Senate Bill 406, made it a felony to harass or intimidate election workers. In a federal appeals court March 7th, four right wing activists claimed that the law is too vague, and could allow THEM to be unfairly intimidated against participating in the election process.
SB 403, signed by Republican Governor Joe Lombardo in May 2023, was unanimously passed in both houses of the legislature after threats to Nevada election workers following the 2020 and 2022 elections. Under the new law, individuals who intend to interfere with the conduct of an election, or retaliate against election officials could face up to four years in prison. It also protects election workers from “doxing,” by disseminating their personal information.
The Reno Gazette Journal reports that plaintiffs used a 2020 social media post by Attorney General Aaron Ford to demonstrate that the law was too vague, and itself could be viewed as intimidation. Ford’s post read in part, “FYI — voter intimidation is illegal in Nevada. Believe me when I say it: You do it, and you will be prosecuted.”
The case, dismissed in federal circuit court for lack of evidence, is backed by wealthy election denier and plaintiff, Robert Beadles. Depending on the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decision, it could be challenged further the U.S. Supreme Court.
We have more at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org I’m Brian Beihl.
Today’s Links
Articles & Resources:
Gov. Joe Lombardo – (2023) Governor Joe Lombardo, Secretary of State Francisco V. Aguilar sign Election Worker Protection Bill into law
Nevada Legislature – Text & Docket of SB 406
States News – (2023) In face of threats, election workers vow: ‘You are not disrupting the democratic process’
U.S. Dept. of Justice – Man Charged for Threatening Nevada State Election Worker
Brennan Center for Justice – (2023) Poll of Election Officials Shows High Turnover Amid Safety Threats and Political Interference
Nevada Current – (2022) Threats of voter intimidation, extremist violence cloud midterms
American Democracy Minute – States Increased Security in Election Offices and Polling Places, and Increased Penalties for Threatening or Harassing Election Officials
U.S. District Court – Decision in Challenge to SB 406
Reno Gazette Journal – 9th Circuit hears appeal over Nevada law to protect election workers from harassment
Groups Taking Action:
Issue One, Protect Democracy, Common Cause, Election Official Legal Defense Fund, Public Citizen
Register or Check Your Voter Registration:
U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your State
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