**Election Security Measures Intensify Nationwide Amid Tensions**

As voting progresses in the presidential race, election officials nationwide are significantly enhancing security protocols. From augmented law enforcement presence and bulletproof vests to the deployment of drones for surveillance, the measures reflect a heightened concern for safety amid an increasingly hostile climate.

The 2020 election cycle saw unprecedented harassment, threats, and protests directed at election workers, transforming the previously routine task of election administration into one fraught with risk. This has led to a significant exodus of election officials, with those remaining implementing rigorous steps to ensure the safety of both poll workers and voters. In some instances, poll workers are being offered pay raises as an incentive to manage the stressful environment.

Detailed security plans were shared with NBC News by various county and state election officials. Maricopa County, a pivotal battleground state, will deploy an extensive security network. The measures include snipers on rooftops, metal detectors, security at all entrances, drones, surveillance cameras, and floodlights. Additionally, there are dual layers of security fencing and off-site parking with bus services to accommodate workers.

Cobb County, Georgia, also reported heightened security measures, including officers at every early voting site and patrolling local precincts. An emergency operations center has been set up at the local 911 call center to monitor traffic, long lines, and potential disruptions. Election workers, without access to smartphones, are being equipped with police radios for immediate contact in emergencies.

Neighboring Gwinnett County has designated the sheriff's office to oversee all polling site security, including areas typically monitored by local police. School police officers will assist at polling sites, and specially trained officers will monitor early voting and absentee ballot counting.

In Detroit, absentee counting poll workers saw their pay double in 2022 to attract qualified personnel. This year, poll workers willing to handle three shifts at the convention center, a site of contention during the 2020 elections, will earn $2,250.

In Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, the police plan to close the street outside the election tabulation building to control access. Similarly, Colorado's counties, under a state-mandated election security analysis, are benefiting from state funds for security upgrades including bulletproof glass and vests. Election officials in Colorado are prepared for new threats, including those related to artificial intelligence, with coordinated efforts involving military and law enforcement.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold emphasized their comprehensive security layers, including 24/7 surveillance of election equipment and protected keycard access. Despite personal threats, some even occurring while Griswold was hospitalized, she reiterated the security of their voting process, which relies on paper ballots to prevent hacking.

Griswold concluded by asserting the seriousness with which they approach election security, highlighting that voting on paper remains the cornerstone of their system’s integrity.