Ballot Boxes Set On Fire: Authorities are investigating a disturbing incident involving the destruction of ballot drop boxes in the Portland, Oregon area, where at least two boxes were set on fire early Monday morning. The Portland Police Bureau responded to a call at approximately 3:30 a.m., discovering that an “incendiary device” had been placed inside one of the drop boxes. Quick action by security personnel extinguished the fire, preventing significant damage to the ballots inside. Multnomah County Elections Director Tim Scott reported that only three ballots were harmed, and efforts will be made to contact the affected voters for replacements.
Across the Columbia River in Vancouver, Washington, another ballot box at a transit center also fell victim to a fire. Vancouver Police discovered a “suspicious device” next to the smoking box, which ultimately resulted in hundreds of damaged ballots. Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey expressed his disappointment, calling the act “heartbreaking” and a “direct attack on democracy.” The ballot drop box at the Fisher’s Landing Transit Center was equipped with a fire suppression system; however, it failed to operate effectively during the incident.
This unfortunate event occurs within the context of one of the most competitive congressional races in the nation, as Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez faces off against Republican challenger Joe Kent in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District. With both states being vote-by-mail, officials are urging voters who may have deposited their ballots after 11 a.m. on Saturday to contact the elections office for further assistance.
The FBI, along with local authorities, is actively investigating these incidents. They are reviewing surveillance footage from the areas surrounding the drop boxes to identify the individuals responsible for these reckless acts. This is not the first time ballot drop boxes have been targeted; a similar incident occurred last week in Phoenix, Arizona, where a mailbox outside a post office was set ablaze, damaging several ballots.
In response to the recent attacks, Clark County officials are adjusting their ballot collection strategies, increasing the frequency of collections and changing collection times to minimize the time drop boxes are full overnight. The aim is to enhance security and protect voters’ rights during this crucial election period.
As these investigations unfold, the safety and integrity of the voting process remain a top priority, with officials urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities near ballot drop boxes. The community’s response to these acts of vandalism will play a vital role in safeguarding democracy during the upcoming elections.
