Commonwealth’s Attorney Backs Lawsuit to Protect Voters at Polls

Published on October 21, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 21, 2026

Commonwealth’s Attorney Supports Arlington County Board Lawsuit Against Federal Policies to Protect Voters from Intimidation at Polling Places

October 21, 2026, ARLINGTON, VA: The Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney for Arlington County and the City of Falls Church supports the Arlington County Board’s lawsuit challenging federal policies that authorize the presence of armed federal agents at polling places. Free and fair elections depend on voters’ ability to cast their ballots without intimidation, fear, or interference. The introduction of armed law enforcement personnel into voting locations risks undermining public confidence in the electoral process and may discourage eligible voters from exercising their fundamental right to vote.

“We have had to take unprecedented measures to ensure a safe and fair voting process in our community. We want every eligible voter to know they can vote without fear or interference -- that we are here to protect them as they exercise their sacred civic duty,” said Commonwealth’s Attorney Parisa Dehghani-Tafti.

Protecting access to the ballot box is essential to a functioning democracy. The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney stands with the Arlington County Board in seeking to ensure that elections remain safe, accessible, and free from voter intimidation. Arlington residents deserve the assurance that they can participate in the democratic process without encountering armed federal agents or other unnecessary barriers at polling locations. We remain committed to safeguarding voters’ rights and preserving public trust in our elections.

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Read Arlington County's official announcement here.