As the United States approaches the 2024 Presidential Election, the country is facing unprecedented levels of polarization and tension. The atmosphere is charged with deep political divisions, raising serious concerns about the potential for widespread civil unrest or even a civil war if the election results are contested or delayed. This briefing explores these risks, the potential issues with election certification, and how preppers can prepare for the worst-case scenarios.

Current Security Landscape:

• Intensifying Political Polarization: The United States is more politically divided than it has been in decades. Rhetoric from both sides of the political spectrum has become increasingly hostile, with significant portions of the population viewing the other side not just as opponents, but as existential threats to the country’s future. This deep-seated polarization is contributing to fears that election results, regardless of the outcome, may not be widely accepted.
• Threats of Civil Unrest and Violence: The lead-up to the election has already seen sporadic incidents of violence at political rallies and protests. There is a growing concern that these incidents could escalate into more widespread and organized violence, particularly in battleground states or major urban centers. The possibility of armed groups clashing over election results, or engaging in targeted attacks against political opponents, is a serious concern for security analysts.
• Potential for Widespread Conflict: The worst-case scenario involves the outbreak of a modern-day civil war, which could be sparked by a contested election or a failure to certify the results. In this scenario, factions aligned with different political ideologies could engage in armed conflict, leading to a breakdown of law and order across large swaths of the country. Even if this extreme scenario does not fully materialize, localized conflicts and a significant increase in violence are possible.
• Election Certification Concerns: One of the most significant risks revolves around the certification of election results. In several states, legal battles over voting procedures, mail-in ballots, and voter ID laws are already underway. If the results in key swing states are contested, it could lead to prolonged legal battles, delaying the certification of the election. This uncertainty could act as a catalyst for unrest, as each side accuses the other of trying to undermine democracy.

Potential Impact on U.S. Preppers:

The possibility of a civil war or widespread conflict, combined with issues surrounding election certification, presents unique challenges for preppers. Here’s how these scenarios could impact you:

1. Breakdown of Law and Order:
   • Local and Regional Conflict Zones: If widespread conflict breaks out, certain areas of the country could become conflict zones, with regular law enforcement unable to maintain order. Preppers in or near these areas should prepare for the possibility of needing to defend their homes or evacuate quickly. It’s crucial to have a well-stocked bug-out bag, a planned evacuation route, and a secure location to retreat to if necessary.
2. Supply Chain Disruptions:
   • Access to Essential Goods: A breakdown in law and order could severely disrupt supply chains, making it difficult to access food, water, medical supplies, and fuel. Preppers should focus on building and maintaining long-term supplies of essential goods, with at least six months’ worth of food and water. Consider purchasing items that are difficult to procure in times of crisis, such as prescription medications and hygiene products.
3. Communications Failures:
   • Loss of Reliable Information: In a conflict scenario, communications infrastructure could be targeted, leading to widespread outages of phone and internet services. Preppers should consider investing in alternative communication methods, such as HAM radios, to stay informed and in touch with family members and community groups. Learning basic radio communication skills and establishing contact networks is essential.
4. Financial Instability:
   • Economic Fallout: The uncertainty surrounding the election and the potential for conflict could lead to a financial crisis, with stock markets crashing and banks limiting access to funds. Preppers should diversify their assets, including holding cash, precious metals, and other hard assets. It’s also wise to have physical currency on hand in case electronic banking services are disrupted.
5. Escalation of Violence:
   • Heightened Risk of Armed Conflict: If violence escalates, there could be a significant increase in the number of armed confrontations between different political factions. Preppers should assess their personal security and consider the legal and practical aspects of self-defense. This includes reinforcing home security, ensuring you have adequate defensive tools, and knowing how to safely and legally use them.
6. Disputed Election and Power Vacuums:
   • Delays in Certification: If the election results are delayed due to legal challenges or other disputes, it could create a power vacuum at the federal or state levels. This uncertainty could lead to further unrest and the potential for rogue groups to attempt to assert control in certain areas. Preppers should be prepared for a period of heightened uncertainty and instability, where government services may be limited or non-existent.

Recommendations for U.S. Preppers:

1. Prepare for Civil Unrest: Focus on securing your home and property. Reinforce doors and windows, install security cameras, and have an evacuation plan in place. If you live in a high-risk area, consider relocating temporarily during the election period.
2. Build Community Networks: Strengthen ties with your neighbors and local community. In times of conflict, mutual support and cooperation can be crucial for survival. Forming a neighborhood watch or a local prepper group can enhance your collective security.
3. Stockpile Essential Supplies: Ensure you have at least six months’ worth of food, water, and other essentials. Focus on items that are shelf-stable and require minimal preparation. Don’t forget to include items for sanitation, first aid, and personal hygiene.
4. Stay Informed and Flexible: Monitor the situation closely, using reliable sources of information. Be prepared to adapt your plans quickly if the situation deteriorates. Consider multiple scenarios, including both sheltering in place and evacuating.
5. Enhance Financial Preparedness: Diversify your financial assets and have cash on hand. Consider withdrawing enough funds to cover several weeks of expenses in case of banking disruptions. Gold and silver can also serve as valuable barter items if the currency becomes unstable.
6. Review and Practice Your Plans: Regularly review your emergency plans with your family or group. Conduct drills for different scenarios, such as a sudden need to evacuate or a lockdown at home due to nearby unrest.

Final Thoughts:

The risk of civil unrest or widespread conflict in the United States surrounding the 2024 Presidential Election is real and should not be underestimated. Preppers need to be particularly vigilant during this period, ensuring that they are fully prepared for a range of potential scenarios, from localized violence to a broader breakdown of civil order. By taking proactive steps now, you can increase your chances of staying safe and protecting your loved ones during this tumultuous time.

Stay safe, stay prepared.