‘We’re not playing’: PA officials warn against election-related violence

Just under four years after the nation endured political violence at the U.S. Capitol following the 2020 presidential election, Pennsylvania law enforcement officials are warning Americans against engaging in any acts of political violence after Tuesday’s 2024 general election. 

On Monday, Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry joined a bipartisan group of state attorneys general in calling for a peaceful response to the general election results, with the coalition adding that they will “enforce the law” against individuals who threaten community safety and imperil the democratic process. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner had even stronger words for potential bad actors, warning anyone thinking about causing disruptions in Philadelphia to “F around and find out.”

The messaging from Pennsylvania law enforcement figures underscores the political tensions enveloping the country as Americans prepare to cast their ballots for president and a host of down-ballot races on Tuesday. Following the 2020 presidential election and the Jan. 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol, at least 80 Pennsylvanians have faced charges related to the Jan. 6 riot, according to Department of Justice data.

The state attorneys general, who released their letter through the National Association of Attorneys General, underscored the importance of peace and unity while condemning the potential for political violence. 

“Regardless of the 2024 election outcome, we condemn any and all acts of violence related to its results. A peaceful transfer of power is the highest testament to the rule of law, a tradition that stands at the heart of our nation’s stability,” the statement – which was signed by the attorneys general of 47 states, Washington, D.C., American Samoa, the Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands – reads. “As Attorneys General, we affirm our commitment to protect our communities and uphold the democratic principles we serve.”

“We call upon every American to vote, participate in civil discourse, and, above all, respect the integrity of the democratic process. Let us come together after this election, not divided by outcomes, but united in our shared commitment to the rule of law and the safety of our fellow Americans,” the letter continued. “Violence has no place in our democratic process. We will enforce the law against any acts that threaten our communities and democracy.”

Henry said her office will collaborate with local, state and federal officials “to ensure a free and fair election process,” according to a release. 

In Pittsburgh, Acting Police Chief Christopher Ragland said Monday that the department has not seen evidence of specific election threats, adding that the city’s Bureau of Police is prepared for Election Day, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. “​​We know what the expectations are and we’re prepared,” Ragland said Monday during a press conference. “We will not tolerate violence, and we will intervene when we see such.”

Krasner, Philadelphia’s top prosecutor, issued his warnings during a Monday morning press conference that featured members of his office’s election task force. 

“We don’t have any deep, abiding fears or concerns. We don’t have any reports. I want people to be reassured that when they get up tomorrow to go vote – if they have not voted already – that everybody in this city is working, and has been working for months, to make sure that there will be nothing tough about that experience, and nothing to fear in that experience,” the district attorney said. Brian Collins, an assistant district attorney with Krasner’s office, urged voters in Philadelphia to first call 911 if they experience any threats or violent incidents. 

While Krasner said he doesn’t currently anticipate any major issues in the city, he said his office won’t tolerate political violence or efforts to disenfranchise voters.

“I also want to be clear – anybody who thinks it’s time to play militia: F around and find out. Anybody who thinks it’s time to insult, to deride, to mistreat, to threaten people: F around and find out,” he said. “We do have the cuffs, we do have the jail cells, we do have the Philly juries and we have the state prisons. So if you’re going to try to turn an election into some form of coercion, if you’re going to try to bully people … you’re going to try to erase votes, you’re going to try any of that nonsense – we’re not playing.”