SAN ANTONIO – In a troubling incident that unfolded on the Southwest side, an election clerk suffered assault while performing duties at the polling site located in the Johnston Branch Library.
Bexar County Elections Administrator Jacquelyn Callanen confirmed that this alarming event took place on Thursday at one of the county’s 51 polling locations, heightening concerns about voter conduct.
The swift response from law enforcement resulted in the arrest of the suspect, identified as Jesse Lutzenberger, who now faces serious charges.
According to information released by the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, Lutzenberger was in the company of his wife while waiting in line, prominently wearing a red “MAGA” hat. He was politely asked by election officials to remove it, as mandated by legal regulations governing polling sites.
While he initially complied with the request, Lutzenberger controversially placed the hat back on his head after casting his vote.
As he made his way out of the polling center, election workers asked him again to remove the hat, which allegedly provoked him to strike the 69-year-old clerk multiple times in the face and chest.
Sheriff Javier Salazar held a press conference in the wake of the disturbing incident, emphasizing, “I believe this was an isolated incident. I’m hoping that people will get the point that, having seen what happened to this man, after he assaulted one of the clerks, maybe somebody thinks twice about doing something like this.”
In a separate press conference, Bexar County Elections Administrator Jacque Callanen urged voters to remain patient and calm amidst reports of long lines at the polls.
“As the lines are getting longer, obviously people are getting a little more testy. We understand that, but the officials are doing an outstanding job and they don’t need to be treated like that,” she emphasized.
Both security personnel and emergency medical services were promptly dispatched to the scene. The injured clerk received immediate medical attention onsite before returning home to recuperate.
“We ask for everyone to calm down,” said Callanen. “Our polls are safe, they are safe. Security remains in place at this site. Bexar County Elections has always made it a priority to provide security for our voters, when needed.”
Callanen advocated for patience among voters, particularly during what is being recorded as the highest voter turnout season ever.
“We ask that our voters remain calm and realize that more than 200,000 early voters have cast their ballot this past week, and the majority of experiences have been positive,” she stated. “Bexar County Elections is a nonpartisan agency and will not comment on the voter’s party of choice; however, he did cast his ballot before the incident took place.”
FULL INTERVIEW
Lutzenberger has been charged with causing injury to an elderly person, highlighting the serious nature of this offense.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Interview with Jacquelyn Callanen, Bexar County Elections Administrator
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Ms. Callanen. We understand that a serious incident occurred at one of your polling locations involving an election clerk. Can you provide us with some details about what transpired?
Jacquelyn Callanen: Thank you for having me. Yes, unfortunately, we experienced a disturbing incident at the Johnston Branch Library polling site where an election clerk was assaulted while performing their duties. This happened when a voter was approached about wearing a campaign hat, which is against the regulations at polling places.
Interviewer: Can you tell us more about the interaction between the election officials and the voter in question?
Jacquelyn Callanen: Certainly. The individual, identified as Jesse Lutzenberger, was asked to remove his red “MAGA” hat before voting, as mandated by election law. He complied initially but then put the hat back on after casting his vote. Election workers then reminded him of the rules as he was leaving, and unfortunately, this led to a violent outburst.
Interviewer: That sounds very distressing. What do we know about the election clerk involved in this incident?
Jacquelyn Callanen: The clerk, who is 69 years old, is understandably shaken by this event but is recovering. These individuals work tirelessly to ensure our elections run smoothly, and it’s disheartening that they faced violence while doing their job.
Interviewer: Law enforcement responded swiftly. What can you tell us about the outcome regarding the suspect?
Jacquelyn Callanen: Yes, law enforcement was quick to act, and Jesse Lutzenberger has been arrested and is facing serious charges for the assault. Sheriff Javier Salazar classified this as an isolated incident, and we hope it doesn’t deter voters from participating in our democratic process.
Interviewer: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to voters in light of this incident?
Jacquelyn Callanen: I want to emphasize that polling places are meant to be safe environments for everyone. We encourage respectful behavior and compliance with election laws to ensure that every voter can exercise their right without fear of harassment or violence. We are committed to providing a safe space for our community to vote.
Interviewer: Thank you for your time, Ms. Callanen, and for sharing your insights on this unfortunate event.
Jacquelyn Callanen: Thank you for bringing attention to this important issue.
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Interviewer: That’s truly concerning. In light of this incident, what measures are being put in place to ensure the safety of election workers and voters at polling sites?
Jacquelyn Callanen: The safety of our election officials and voters is our top priority. We’ve increased security personnel at polling locations, and we’re working closely with law enforcement to monitor any potential disturbances. Additionally, we are reinforcing training for our election workers on how to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally.
Interviewer: This incident seems to highlight a growing tension at polling places. What message do you have for voters as we approach the peak voting period?
Jacquelyn Callanen: I want to stress the importance of patience and civility at our polling sites. We recognize that long lines can be frustrating, especially during this record voter turnout season. However, our election workers are doing their best to serve the community. It’s crucial for everyone to remember that we’re all in this together. Let’s maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Interviewer: How has the community responded to this incident so far, and what support is available to the injured election clerk?
Jacquelyn Callanen: The community has been overwhelmingly supportive. We have received numerous messages of encouragement for our election workers. As for the injured clerk, we’re providing necessary support and resources to ensure their well-being during recovery. We are grateful for their service and dedication, especially during such a critical time.
Interviewer: Thank you, Ms. Callanen, for your insights and for sharing the steps being taken to uphold safety and integrity at the polls. We hope for a smoother process as voting continues.
Jacquelyn Callanen: Thank you for having me. We appreciate your coverage and support in spreading the message of calm and respect during this election season.
