Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has announced a series of measures by the Department of Law and Public Safety (LPS) to protect voting rights and ensure the integrity of the 2025 general election in New Jersey.
Early in-person voting for the 2025 general election begins on Saturday, October 25. Various divisions within LPS will be involved in efforts to maintain free and fair elections across the state.
The Voter Protection Initiative, established in 2022, collaborates with community stakeholders to address issues related to voting access. The initiative is focused on resolving any violations of voting or civil rights that may occur during early voting or on Election Day, as outlined under the New Jersey Civil Rights Act and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.
“The success of our democracy depends on elections that remain free and fair,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Once again, we are prepared to ensure that all eligible New Jerseyans are able to cast their ballots without harassment, discrimination, or intimidation. Those seeking to disrupt the voting process will be held accountable.”
LPS provides resources for residents about their right to vote and offers guidance on how voters can report problems encountered during early voting or on Election Day.
The Division of Law will have attorneys available around-the-clock to advise county election officials throughout early voting and Election Day. This effort aims to support secure elections and uphold access for all eligible voters according to state law.
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability within LPS will monitor reports of voter intimidation, improper electioneering, fraud, and other potential criminal violations. Reports involving possible election interference will be referred to law enforcement as needed. Additionally, the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell will oversee both cyber and physical security threats related to the election.
Attorney General Platkin has also issued updated guidance for local law enforcement officials and County Prosecutors statewide. The guidance clarifies law enforcement’s role in elections and outlines legal protections against voter intimidation or coercion.
One aspect highlighted in the guidance is a change regarding “protective zones” around polling sites. Previously set at 100 feet from polling entrances, a new law enacted in 2025 allows county boards of elections to extend this zone up to 200 feet. Boards must provide clear notice about the size of these zones. Poll workers and local election officials are primarily responsible for maintaining order at polling places; law enforcement may be called upon if necessary.
As part of its Voter Protection Initiative, LPS’s Division on Civil Rights (DCR) will have staff available during all polling hours throughout early voting and Election Day to receive reports from individuals who experience discrimination or harassment while voting. Members of the public can report such incidents by phone at 1-833-NJDCR4U (1-833-653-2748) or through the NJ BIAS online portal. Depending on urgency, complaints may be addressed during or after the election.
Outside LPS, additional information—including county-level election office contacts—is provided by the New Jersey Department of State. Residents can direct questions about elections to their County Superintendent of Elections or County Board of Elections.
Anyone who believes their right to vote has been compromised or who wishes to report other concerns can call the State’s Voter Information and Assistance line toll-free at 1-877-NJVOTER (1-877-658-6837).
