US Attorney Appoints WNY Elections Supervisor

With the general election approaching on November 5, US Attorney Trini E. Ross has appointed Assistant US Attorney Paul E. Bonanno to oversee election integrity efforts in the Western District of New York. Ross made the announcement Friday, emphasizing the Justice Department’s commitment to ensuring a safe and fair voting process.

Bonanno, appointed as a District Election Officer (DEO), will handle complaints related to voting rights, threats of violence against election workers and potential election fraud. He will coordinate with the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. to ensure a prompt and effective response to any reported concerns.

“Every citizen should be able to vote without interference or discrimination, and every vote should be counted in a fair and free election,” Ross said. “Similarly, election officials should be able to work without facing illegal threats of violence. The Ministry of Justice seeks to protect the integrity of the election process.”

The Justice Department’s Election Day program plays a critical role in preventing voter intimidation, discrimination, and election fraud. Through local liaisons like Bonanno, the program encourages public reporting of suspected violations of federal election law to build trust and transparency in the election system.

Federal law protects against a number of offenses, including intimidation, vote bribery, impersonation, vote tampering and ballot manipulation. Voters also have special protections under the Voting Rights Act, which guarantees assistance to those who need assistance because of a disability or language barrier.

Ross again emphasized the importance of the electoral process, calling it the “cornerstone of American democracy.” She emphasized the need for public involvement in reporting issues to maintain election integrity. On Election Day, Bonanno will be available during voting hours at 716-843-5700 to answer complaints and inquiries.

In addition, FBI agents will be on hand to investigate any reports of election-related irregularities. The local FBI office in Buffalo can be reached at 716-856-7800. The public may also contact the Washington, D.C. Division of Civil Rights online at civilrights.justice.gov or by calling 800-253-3931 to report a violation of federal voting rights.

Ross urged voters to be vigilant and proactive, stressing that public assistance is vital to maintaining free and fair elections. However, she cautioned that in cases of immediate threats or violence, people should contact 911 first, as state and local authorities are better equipped to respond quickly to emergencies at polling stations.

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