Federal and local authorities are investigating multiple incidents involving fires at ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, as Election Day approaches.
Two fires were reported early Monday morning in Portland, with a similar incident occurring on October 8 in Vancouver. Election officials confirmed that hundreds of ballots were destroyed in these incidents, raising concerns about election interference and voter disenfranchisement, CNN reported.
Portland Police identified a potential link between the fires, citing evidence from incendiary devices found at the locations. Authorities also released details of a vehicle seen at the scene of the Portland fire—a black or dark-colored Volvo S-60 missing a front plate.
Assistant Chief Amanda McMillan emphasized that these acts appear targeted, highlighting the need for quick action to protect the integrity of the election process.
Meanwhile, Washington Governor Jay Inslee announced 24-hour security around ballot boxes across the state in response to the incidents. Inslee urged voters to monitor their ballot status via official channels to ensure their votes are counted.
FBI officials are also conducting a parallel investigation, coordinating efforts with state and local authorities to ensure election security.
In Vancouver, where hundreds of ballots were destroyed, election officials are asking residents who used the affected box to confirm their ballot status.
Some damaged ballots may still be processed, but others were severely destroyed, according to Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey. Portland election officials assured voters that anyone impacted would receive replacement ballots.
Officials in Oregon and Washington condemned the attacks, describing them as deliberate attempts to disrupt the democratic process. Oregon Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade stressed that such actions are unacceptable, reinforcing the importance of maintaining voter trust as the election nears.
With the Portland ballot box already replaced, law enforcement has increased patrols around ballot drop locations in both cities.
The incidents have heightened concerns in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District, where a competitive race is underway. These fires follow recent warnings from federal agencies about the potential for election-related violence, underscoring the need for vigilance in the weeks leading to Election Day.
Written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.