Election Denial Groups Use Telegram to Coordinate Poll Surveillance Efforts in Swing States

Election denial groups have increasingly used platforms like Telegram to organize poll-watching efforts and encourage surveillance of dropboxes in key areas for the upcoming election. Reports indicate that groups including the American Patriots Three Percent militia are actively recruiting members to observe voting locations, especially in swing states such as Arizona and Michigan. Some participants have shared guidelines for their poll-watching tactics, advising on how to document their observations without violating voter intimidation laws.

Despite the lack of evidence for the widespread voter fraud these groups claim, organizers have instructed volunteers to report any perceived irregularities, potentially escalating tensions on Election Day. Experts warn this movement, fueled by lingering distrust in election integrity, poses risks of increased confrontations at voting sites. The Department of Homeland Security has also raised concerns, warning local law enforcement of potential threats to dropboxes and election infrastructure as the groups rally for increased “patriot” involvement at the polls.