Philadelphia officials step up Election Day security ahead of midterm elections

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia officials are preparing additional security measures for Election Day, including the deployment of 50 assistant district attorneys and federal election monitors, as voters prepare to cast their ballots in the midterm elections.

Quanda Grant, of West Philadelphia, was outside City Hall on her way to drop off her mail-in ballot. She said she has concerns about Election Day but believes voter apathy poses a threat as well.

"I do think we are going to see problems," Grant said.

"We can't just keep on saying my votes not going to county, we gotta say we gotta do it and see what the outcome is," she added.

City officials are taking steps to protect the voting process and its outcome.

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The Philadelphia District Attorney's Office announced that its Election Task Force will be mobilized Tuesday, an effort officials have been planning since the summer. Fifty assistant district attorneys will be deployed to respond to issues, and a hotline will be available for anyone who witnesses problems.

"Our main role on Election Day is to make sure everyone gets a chance to vote. We are not looking to do anything other than make things run smooth," Assistant District Attorney Brian Collins said.

The Department of Justice also plans to send federal election monitors to Philadelphia. Officials said they are not concerned about the move because it has been done in the past.

Some voters said they welcome the increased security.

"I just think that with all the hype and everything that's happened. I think whoever the pole watchers are they are more aware of that," said Tyrone Wrice of West Philadelphia.

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Others said they wanted to make sure they voted early.

"I did have a slight concern. Thats why i came to city hall and hand out my ballot to make sure it got in there," said Colleen Chambers of Northern Liberties.

Wrice emphasized the importance of casting a ballot.

"The power of the vote, even though it's one, is probably the most powerful thing we have," he said.

The Election Task Force will remain activated until every vote is counted. Voters in Pennsylvania who are in line by 8 p.m. cannot be turned away.