The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) agreed last night to refrain from entering polling locations and central counting sites in Texas or interfering in state election administration following a lawsuit from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
On November 1, the DOJ announced it would send federal election “monitors” to eight Texas counties—Atascosa, Bexar, Dallas, Frio, Harris, Hays, Palo Pinto, and Waller—just days before Election Day.
In response, the Texas Secretary of State informed the DOJ that Texas law does not permit federal “monitors” inside polling places or central counting stations.
READ: DOJ To Monitor Voting Rights Compliance In 86 Jurisdictions Across 27 States On Election Day
Attorney General Paxton then filed a lawsuit on November 4, arguing that no federal law authorizes the Biden-Harris administration to deploy agents to “monitor” state elections, especially where state law prohibits their presence.
After Paxton’s lawsuit and a request for a temporary restraining order, the DOJ reversed its decision, agreeing to comply with Texas election law. Under the agreement, DOJ monitors will remain outside polling locations and central counting stations, adhering to Texas laws prohibiting interference within 100 feet of these areas.
READ: All Eyes On Pennsylvania, Michigan, Virginia, And Iowa As Voters Head To The Polls
Additionally, a federal judge ordered the Biden-Harris administration to confirm that no monitors will enter Texas polling sites or tabulation centers, in line with state regulations.
“Texans run Texas elections, and we will not be bullied by the Department of Justice,” said Attorney General Paxton. “The DOJ knows it has no authority to monitor Texas elections and backed down when Texas stood up for the rule of law. No federal agent will be permitted to interfere with Texas’s free and fair elections.”
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