As Election Day approaches, two ballot drop boxes in the Pacific Northwest were targeted by fires this week, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of ballots. The incidents occurred in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, with investigators currently searching for the perpetrator responsible for both acts.
In Portland, a ballot drop box was found with an incendiary device attached to its side, which was promptly extinguished by security personnel. Fortunately, most of the ballots in this box remained unharmed. However, in Vancouver, a second ballot box was set on fire, leading to the destruction of hundreds of ballots. These incidents are believed to be linked to a previous incident in Vancouver earlier this month.
The US Department of Homeland Security had issued a bulletin in September warning about potential threats to election infrastructure, including ballot drop boxes. Officials emphasized that any attack on a ballot box is an attack on democracy and vowed to ensure the safety of election workers and voters.
Both Oregon and Washington state officials condemned the acts of vandalism, with Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade and Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs denouncing any attempts to disrupt the democratic process.
Authorities revealed that fire suppressant systems were installed in all ballot boxes in Multnomah County and Clark County, which helped protect ballots in the Portland box. Efforts are underway to ensure that all affected voters will still have their votes counted.
Law enforcement agencies are collaborating on the investigation, with the FBI's Seattle office involved in the case. State leaders are urging citizens to continue voting despite the incidents, with increased security measures being implemented around ballot drop boxes.
Following the fires, steps have been taken to enhance security around drop-off locations, including overnight patrols and replacement of damaged ballot boxes. Officials are committed to safeguarding the integrity of the election process and ensuring that voters can cast their ballots safely and securely.
The incidents have sparked concerns about voter intimidation and the need to protect election infrastructure, especially in the lead-up to a highly contested House race in Washington's 3rd Congressional District.
