Patel Open To Poll Deployment

WashingtonPatel reversed himself when a senator pressed him.

US elections are run by states, so a federal presence can only deter voters.

A Reconstruction-era statute, 18 U.S.C. §592, bars armed federal officers from polling places, punishable by up to five years.

Senator Peter Welch pressed for a pledge against interference, and Patel gave none.

Sources: The New York Times