As Election Day approaches, poll workers nationwide are facing an increase in threats directed at them. Such was the case of an elderly San Antonio poll worker who was assaulted Thursday after instructing a man wearing a Make America Great Again (MAGA) cap to remove it. The man was arrested that same day and bonded out of jail Friday night.
Jesse Lutzenberger, 63, went to a San Antonio polling station Thursday afternoon wearing a red MAGA cap, popularly worn by Donald Trump supporters. Texas law prohibits the use of clothing or accessories supporting political parties or campaigns within 100 feet of a polling location, with the offense considered a Class C misdemeanor. Offenders can face a $500 fine.
In that context, the 69-year-old poll worker asked Lutzenberger to remove his cap as he entered the building. Lutzenberger complied and proceeded to cast his ballot, he then put his cap back on, authorities said. When the election clerk attempted to escort Lutzenberger out, he asked him again to remove the cap. Lutzenberger responded by punching the elderly man in the face and chest multiple times, deputies said.
According to local news outlets, Lutzenberger was arrested that same day and charged with injury to the elderly, a third-degree felony. The suspect posted his $30,000 bond and was released from the Bexar County Adult Detention Center Friday night.
During a Thursday news conference, authorities told local media that the poll worker sustained a scratch on his left cheek and received treatment by Emergency Medical Services.
Local officials emphasized voters cannot wear campaign paraphernalia to the voting booth or discuss political preferences while waiting in line. They also warned the public that assaults directed at election officials would "not be tolerated."
Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales released a statement vowing to "vigorously prosecute" Lutzenberger.
"During the first week of early voting in Bexar County, an election clerk was assaulted for simply doing his job – I intend to instruct our staff to vigorously prosecute this individual and hold him and anyone else accountable who engages in this type of criminal behavior. The right to vote is sacrosanct in our country and the bedrock of our democracy. But no one has the right to assault, threaten, harass or intimidate an election employee or voter."
Election officials nationwide have taken steps to protect election workers and infrastructure from threats and violence. Measures include installing bullet-resistant glass at voting centers and conducting active shooter drills and de-escalation training for volunteers. These enhanced security protocols follow reports from a large number of election officials who have faced threats, abuse, or harassment while carrying out their duties.
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