FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2026: Crown Point, Indiana
On October 20, the Lake County Board of Elections and Registration received notice that the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division intends to send election monitors to Lake County on November 3, 2026. Marion County has confirmed they have received similar notice.
LCBER Director Michelle Fajman and Assistant Director Lori O’Dea met with DOJ officials on October 27, 2026. The Department of Justice confirmed that they are conducting voluntary exit interviews at various polling locations in Lake County. Their questions will focus on three areas:
- Language barriers
- Disability access
- Provisional ballots
These interviews will be conducted outside of the polling location by civilian members of the DOJ and only voters exiting the poll will be approached. Participation is completely voluntary, and any voter can decline for any or no reason.
“The Board of Elections takes great pride in the care and professionalism with which Lake County conducts its elections,” said Director Michelle Fajman and Assistant Director Lori O’Dea. “We are confident in our procedures and our commitment to compliance with state and federal voting laws. Our priority remains ensuring that every eligible voter can cast a ballot safely, privately, and without interference.”
Any voter with questions or concerns should call the Board of Elections at 219.755.3795. Staff will be monitoring phone lines continuously from 5am to 8pm on Election Day.
Voters who prefer are welcome to cast an early vote until noon on Monday, 11/2 at any of eleven Lake County early voting sites. Click here to access a list of locations and hours.
Press Contact
Michelle Fajman
Director, Lake County Board of Elections and Registration
fajmamr@lakecountyin.gov
219.755.3795
