Ballot Box Arson Incidents Stir Alarm in Pacific Northwest

Ballot drop boxes in Oregon and Washington set ablaze, destroying hundreds of votes and raising concerns about election security.

At a Glance

FBI investigating arson attacks on ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington.
Hundreds of ballots destroyed in Vancouver; three damaged in Portland.
Local authorities increasing security measures and patrols around drop boxes.
Incidents linked to widespread conspiracy theories undermining public trust in electoral procedures.
Both Democrat and Republican candidates condemn attacks as threats to democracy.

Arson Attacks Target Ballot Drop Boxes

The FBI has launched an investigation into a series of arson attacks on ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. These incidents have resulted in the destruction of hundreds of ballots and have intensified concerns about the security of voting infrastructure as the nation approaches a crucial election.

In Vancouver, Washington, an incendiary device attached to a ballot drop box caused a fire that destroyed hundreds of ballots. Meanwhile, in Portland, Oregon, a similar device damaged three ballots inside a drop box. These attacks are believed to be connected to a previous attempt to set a Vancouver ballot drop box on fire on October 8.

Officials Respond with Increased Security Measures

In response to these attacks, local authorities are implementing enhanced security measures. Clark County in Washington will increase the frequency of ballot collection and hire workers to monitor drop boxes 24/7 until the election concludes. Local police departments have also announced plans to increase patrols around ballot drop boxes to deter further incidents.

“We take the safety of our election workers seriously and will not tolerate threats or acts of violence that seek to undermine the democratic process,” said Secretary of State Steven Hobbs.

The US Department of Homeland Security has warned about social media content promoting the destruction of ballot boxes, highlighting the broader context of these attacks. Authorities have released photos of a dark-colored Volvo linked to the incidents, but no suspects have been identified yet.

Impact on Voters and Election Integrity

These arson attacks have not only damaged election materials but have also raised concerns about the integrity of the voting process. Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey described the incidents as a “direct attack on democracy” and urged affected voters to contact his office for replacement ballots.

Both Oregon and Washington are vote-by-mail states that have long used ballot drop boxes. These boxes allow voters to submit ballots early without waiting in line on Election Day. However, in the wake of the 2020 election, ballot drop boxes have faced criticism and conspiracy theories, particularly from right-wing groups. Six Republican-dominated states have even banned their use since 2020.

Bipartisan Condemnation of Attacks

In a rare display of bipartisan unity, both Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican Joe Kent, candidates in Washington’s third congressional district, have strongly condemned the attacks. Their statements underscore the gravity of these incidents and their potential impact on the democratic process.

“There is absolutely zero place in our democracy for political violence or interference against our fellow citizens, election workers, or voting infrastructure. I hope the perpetrator of this reprehensible act is quickly apprehended – and local and federal law enforcement have my full support in working to keep our democratic process safe and secure,” said Marie Gluesenkamp Perez.

As the investigation continues, voters are encouraged to check their ballot status online and obtain replacements if necessary. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining electoral integrity amidst rising security threats and underscore the importance of vigilance in protecting the democratic process.