With Election Day fast approaching, ballot box fires in Oregon, Washington, and Arizona have sparked nationwide concerns about voter interference. Early Monday morning on October 28, authorities responded to separate incidents in Portland, Oregon, Vancouver, Washington, and Phoenix, Arizona, where ballot boxes were targeted and set ablaze.
In Portland, police confirmed that an incendiary device was placed inside a ballot box around 3:30 a.m., igniting the fire. The Portland Police Bureau’s Explosive Disposal Unit quickly responded, extinguishing the flames and removing the device. “Officers determined an incendiary device was placed inside the ballot box and used to ignite the fire,” the bureau stated. Officials are still investigating the extent of damage to ballots in Portland, with the Portland Fire Investigations Unit leading the inquiry.
Arizona Sees Similar Attack on Mailbox Ballots
Meanwhile, in Phoenix, Arizona, an attack on a drive-up USPS mailbox resulted in significant ballot damage. Authorities report that flames were spotted coming from the mailbox early Monday, damaging around 20 ballots. Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes confirmed that postal inspectors took possession of the damaged ballots and are working to identify affected voters. “Many undamaged ballots were recovered,” Fontes said, adding that “affected voters will be contacted directly.”
Fontes also praised the Arizona USPS and emergency responders for their swift actions. “Our local fire and police departments responded quickly, and additional security measures are in place to prevent similar attacks,” he assured voters. Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer emphasized that voters can check the status of their ballots online and advised those impacted to request replacement ballots before the October 25 deadline.
Officials Urge Vigilance as Election Approaches
The ballot boxes fire across three states have heightened concerns about voting security just eight days before the election. The FBI is now involved in investigating the incidents, working closely with local police departments to assess whether these attacks are isolated or part of a coordinated effort to disrupt voting.
With over 43 million ballots already cast nationwide, election officials stress vigilance. Voters are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to local authorities and can take advantage of additional protections, including provisional ballots, to ensure their votes count.