Several Democratic political activists have been placed under investigation by the Florida State Police, who report to George W. Bush's brother the governor of Florida, in an attempt to intimidate, publicly embarrass and ultimately silence them. These "investigations" have been accompanied by media stories of "official" allegations ranging from vote fraud to campaign finance irregularities to racketeering even though no charges have been brought despite exhaustive investigations.
There have been dozens of unannounced visits by armed state police to homes whose mostly Democratic and elderly residents had signed up for an absentee ballot. Several said the State Police officers took off their jackets and exposed their firearms while questioning them. In at least one case, the officer crossed his legs and tapped a 9mm pistol sitting in an ankle holster while he asked detailed questions about the interviewee's reasons for voting absentee. (Since absentee voting is a choice under Florida law, one must wonder about the line of questioning.)
The Republicans have been hard put to explain what exactly those who are under investigation have done wrong. The investigations seem to center on voter registration drives, and especially absentee ballot requests. In one a labor leader was accused of "racketeering" because he provided 37 cents worth of postage to mail an absentee ballot application.
Clearly it is now time to request United Nations oversight for the U.S. election.
Independent (UK) - Politics and sleaze envelop Orlando
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