GIFFORDS applauds Colorado for legislation to keep armed intimidation out of polling places 

WASHINGTON — GIFFORDS, the national gun violence prevention organization led by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, applauded Colorado lawmakers and Governor Polis for signing the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act into law. The goal of this crucial measure is to prevent armed intimidation against voters and election workers in Colorado.  

“Every single American and poll worker must feel safe as they seek to cast their ballot, and that’s what this bill ensures. I applaud the Colorado legislature and Governor Polis for this important law, which protects both the safety of Coloradans and the strength of this state’s democracy,” said Emma Brown, Executive Director at GIFFORDS. Access to the ballot is one of our most fundamental rights. This legislation will work to protect not only voters but the dedicated election officials who do the critical work to make sure Coloradans can make their voices heard at the polls.   

In 2024, a survey from the Brennan Center found that 38 percent of local election officials experienced threats, harassment, or abuse for doing their jobs. Additionally, more than one-third of local election officials know at least one person who resigned at least in part due to safety concerns.