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Miami (October 22, 2020) – “As a community of immigrants, we know that democracy cannot function, let alone thrive, absent vigorous public participation. I have always believed that there should never be any type of barrier, hindrance, or intimidation discouraging an eligible voter from participating in our election process.

On Tuesday, a City of Miami police officer wore a mask supporting a particular candidate to a local voting site. While I respect the Officer’s First Amendment right to express his opinion and support any candidate he wishes, I agree with Chief Colina’s statement calling his actions unacceptable. Wearing one’s police uniform at a voting site while expressing a political opinion may be construed as an official attempt to send a distinct message to potential voters. This should not occur in Miami-Dade County. Accordingly, I have asked my staff to look into this matter.

I want to remind our community that I have activated our Voter Protection Task Force to ensure that everyone has a fair and equal chance to cast their votes. Our investigators and civilian employees are available throughout the early voting period at the designated locations during voting hours. I encourage anyone who suspects improper or irregular activity to speak to them or call our Voter Protection Hotline at 305-547-3300.

As always, we stand ready to do whatever we reasonably can to protect the integrity of our elections, the voters, and their ballots.”

For further information, contact Ed Griffith, Public Information Officer II, at (305) 547-0535 or EdGriffith@MiamiSAO.com