In the midst of an already contentious election year, tensions have escalated in Texas Hill Country. A group or individual identifying as the “Trump Klan” is reportedly distributing threatening messages targeting potential voters who support Kamala Harris.
Authorities in San Marcos, Texas, have confirmed receiving multiple reports of what appears to be attempts at voter intimidation by supporters of Donald Trump. Residents have discovered flyers attached to campaign signs, which state that the property owner has been “identified” and added to the group’s “National Database of miscreant Harris supporters.”
The content of the flyer claims that individuals are identified through social interactions, yard signs, or vehicle bumper stickers. It warns that these individuals will face IRS tax audits if Donald Trump regains the presidency, purportedly leading to several years of legal and financial challenges. The flyer ends with a signature from the self-proclaimed “Grand Dragon of Trump Klan #124; San Marco, TX.”
The initial flyers surfaced last Friday, with more appearing subsequently. The San Marcos Police Department is advising anyone who encounters a flyer to contact them and refrain from removing it, as officers intend to investigate and handle the situation safely.
San Marcos Police Chief Stan Standridge addressed the issue in a Facebook post, emphasizing that it is illegal in Texas to attempt to influence, coerce, or prevent a voter from participating in an election. The police department intends to identify any suspects and submit the case to the district attorney’s office for potential charges.
These incidents coincide with criticism the Trump campaign has faced due to an October 27 rally, during which several speakers made remarks perceived as racially insensitive towards Latinos, Black Americans, and Jewish citizens.
Voter intimidation is classified as a federal crime, punishable by fines and up to a year in jail. It is also considered a third-degree felony under Texas law.