CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) – An FBI and Justice Department bulletin released earlier this month warns that domestic extremists pose a threat of violence related to this year's presidential election. according to an Oct. 4 report from CBS News.

“There's the radical right and the radical left. It's both sides,” said WBTV security analyst Karl de la Guerra. “So from a security perspective, this is actually a non-political issue.”

As the founder of KDI Protective Services, de la Guerra has helped protect dignitaries around the world.

“One of the things I've noticed as I've traveled around the U.S. over the last few weeks is that there's a general sense of heightened concern,” he said. “More than in previous political cycles.”

According to the CBS report, the joint FBI-DOJ bulletin notes an increase in threats against election workers in recent months.

As early voting begins in North Carolina, de la Guerra advises everyone to be extra vigilant when going to the polls.

“There is no reason for voters to be afraid, there is no reason for them to be afraid,” he said. “But I believe that given the political scene across the United States, people need to remain vigilant whether they are going to a polling place or a political rally, whatever that may be.”

Following threats of violence against poll workers in 2020, the Justice Department established a task force to investigate and prosecute election-related threats.

Related: 2024 Election Guide: Everything you need to know about voting in the Carolinas

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