Iowa Sec. of State Pate reassures voters of Iowa’s election integrity

(ABC 6 News) – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate reassured Iowa voters on Thursday of the steps taken to provide a secure election day.

Leaders of state and federal agencies held a conference at the Iowa National Guard’s Joint Forces headquarters to provide information on what they’re doing to ensure a safe, smooth, and accurate voting process on November 8.

Secretary Pate reassured Iowans they will be able to cast their votes safely and if anyone tries to impede that process in any way, election officials have local law enforcement on speed dial.

“I can’t emphasize this enough: The integrity of the vote and the safety of voters are my top priorities,” Secretary Pate said. “Pre-and post-election audits, paper ballots, and Voter ID are just a few of the many protections in place. Iowans, we’ve got your back, so go out there, make your voice heard, and be a voter.”

The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Management will assist in monitoring Election day activity.

The State of Iowa is also working with the federal government to ensure elections are protected at every level including ensuring top level cybersecurity protections.

“In support of this year’s election, the Department of Management, Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) will be monitoring cyberthreats jointly with the Iowa National Guard. The State of Iowa Security Operations Center will provide 24-hour-a-day cyberthreat monitoring and heightened support during this year’s elections,” said Shane Dwyer, Chief Information Security Officer, the Office of the Chief Information Officer.

The Iowa National Guard’s Joint Task Force Cyber has also been directed to provide electoral security assistance.

Finally, Secretary Pate urged Iowans to be leery of election misinformation and disinformation, and instead turn to trusted sources for election information, which are the Secretary of State and county election officials.

“And I’d like to make a request to every voter who goes to the polls on Election Day: Be nice to the poll workers and treat them with respect. They stepped up to provide a civic duty and are putting in long hours. It’s an important job and they’re doing it because they care about our elections,” Secretary Pate said.

Polls will be open across Iowa from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday.

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