U.S. authorities believe terror group al-Qaeda is plotting attacks in three states on election day.
According to CBS News, unnamed sources revealed al-Qaeda could be planning attacks in the U.S., leaving officials no choice but to take the threat seriously.
No specific locations were mentioned; however, CBS believes New York, Texas and Virginia are the most likely targets.
Authorities continue to stress the threat has not been confirmed but the counterterrorism and homeland security units are on high alert.
A senior FBI official stated: “The counterterrorism and homeland security communities remain vigilant and well-postured to defend against attacks here in the United States.
“The FBI, working with our federal, state and local counterparts, shares and assesses intelligence on a daily basis and will continue to work closely with law enforcement and intelligence community partners to identify and disrupt any potential threat to public safety.”
Sky News reported New York authority spokesman Steve Coleman announced the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which is responsible for airports, tunnels and bridges across New York City, has been alerted and are prepared.
“We are continuing with the high level of patrols at all of our facilities that we have had in place for some time now,” Coleman explained, though he did not offer any specifics.
Authorities have already announced they will be watching “polling places” this year as they can be seen as “attractive targets” for “lone wolf” attacks and extremist activities.
Al-Qaeda was responsible for the devastation of 9/11 in 2001, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. It deeply affected the nation and is remembered with great sadness each year.
By Kenya Sinclair
