DHS report cautions violent extremists impose threat to government officials
Date
10/3/2024 5:27:14 AM
(MENAFN) A recent assessment from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), released on Wednesday, highlights that domestic violent extremists are expected to represent "the most significant physical threat" to government officials, voters, and personnel related to elections. This includes threats to polling places, ballot drop box locations, voter registration sites, campaign events, Political party offices, and vote counting sites. The DHS attributes this potential for violence to extremists motivated by various policy grievances, which have led to increased targeting of election officials.
According to the DHS's annual threat assessment, the overall threat environment in the United States is expected to remain high. The report notes a complex array of threats to public safety, border security, critical infrastructure, and the economy, stemming from violent extremists, transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), hostile nation-states, and cyber actors. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the importance of collaboration among federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector partners in addressing these challenges to ensure public safety.
The assessment, prepared by the Office of Intelligence and Analysis, indicates that domestic threats will mainly arise from lone offenders or small groups. These individuals may be driven to violence by a mix of racial, religious, gender, or anti-government grievances, as well as conspiracy theories and personal factors. The impending Presidential Election and the ongoing Israel/Hamas conflict are identified as particular motivators for these extremists.
In summary, the DHS report underscores the diverse and evolving nature of the threats facing the nation, particularly from domestic violent extremists, and highlights the agency's commitment to safeguarding the American public through proactive measures and collaboration with various partners.
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