By Candice Ludlow
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkno/local-wkno-932561.mp3
Memphis, TN – The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice will be in Memphis and Shelby County to monitor the election today.
United States Attorney Edward Stanton says the extra staff is here to ensure every eligible voter gets to vote.
"One of the staples and hallmarks of democracy is the voting process," Stanton explains. "So this office is committed to enforcing the federal laws that's on place and in hand to vote where the voters can vote without any issues of suppression or intimidation."
Memphis Congressman Steve Cohen - who's seeking re-election to the 9th District - asked the Department of Justice to investigate after voters were erroneously turned away from the polls in August.
Shelby County joins 30 communities being monitored by the department. Also on the list is Neshoba County, Mississippi where candidates bought voters beer.
"We felt it was best to have observers and monitors here on the ground," Stanton said.
To report any problems voting, call the Department of Justice at 901.969.2920 or the FBI at 901.747.4300.