US heightens security measures for election safety

By Nuri Aydin

ISTANBUL (AA) - US officials have implemented extensive security measures at polling and counting centers nationwide in a bid to ensure secure voting in Tuesday's elections.

Authorities have deployed surveillance drones around key sites, positioned snipers on rooftops, and installed security cameras surrounding voting locations, according to a Washington Post article.

To further tighten security, additional police units have been dispatched to streets across the country.

In Washington and Nevada, National Guard units are on standby to respond to any potential unrest.

Voting booths are now equipped with "panic buttons," adding an extra layer of protection for voters and staff.

This increased vigilance comes after the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol, where far-right groups and supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the building to contest the certification of the 2020 election results.

The incident led to the deaths of five people, including a police officer. Trump faced impeachment charges for incitement of insurrection but was acquitted in the Senate in February 2021.

On Tuesday, Americans will head to the ballot box to vote not only for the next US president, but also for Congress, state governors, and local government officials.