Salem, OR - Protections for Elections

Armed federal agents at your polling place
are already illegal. Your city council can enforce it.

18 U.S.C. § 592 — Federal Law Since 1865

Any federal employee who stations armed personnel at a polling place commits a felony. No exceptions — not for law enforcement, not for "keeping the peace." The DOJ's own manual bans FBI agents from polling places.

5 YEARS PRISON $250,000 FINE PERMANENT BAR FROM OFFICE

Why Salem?

Legal Authority

Oregon adopted constitutional home rule in 1906, explicitly rejecting Dillon's Rule.

Why It Can Work Here

Salem's progressive council majority is complicated by Mayor Julie Hoy, who was backed by conservative groups.

What the Ordinance Would Do
Direct city police not to assist armed federal personnel near polling places. No new criminal penalties — just a policy on how the city's own resources are used.

Your City Council

9 members · Council-Manager · Mayor at-large + 8 ward-elected councilors
Oregon state capital. Governed by 1996 Salem Charter.

Salem City Hall
555 Liberty St SE, Salem, OR 97301

(503) 588-6255
cityofsalem.net/government/city-council-mayor

Meetings

Mon

6:00 PM

2nd & 4th Mon

What You Can Do

Call your council member and tell them you want Salem to pass a Protections for Elections ordinance enforcing the federal ban on armed troops at polls.
(503) 588-6255

Show up to the next council meeting. Public comment is open to all residents. Three minutes at the mic changes priorities.
MonS · 6:00 PM · Salem City Hall

Bring a friend. Two people speaking makes it a pattern. Five makes it a movement. Give this flyer to three people you know.

Get Connected → ACLU of OregonLWV OregonCommon Cause OregonWestern States CenterOregon for All Coalition