Emmanuel OchayiIn a troubling incident that has raised concerns about election security, incendiary devices were used to destroy ballot drop boxes in both Oregon and Washington just days before the United States election.
The attacks, which took place early Monday, resulted in hundreds of ruined ballots and have prompted an FBI investigation.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIncidents Unfold in Portland and Vancouver
According to officials, the first ballot drop box was set ablaze in Portland, Oregon, during the early hours on Monday. Not long after, a similar incident occurred in Vancouver, Washington, where a ballot box was also destroyed by a device attached to the outside. These events are believed to be linked, as both involved incendiary devices specifically placed to damage or destroy the boxes.
“It’s heartbreaking,” stated Greg Kimsey, Clark County’s elected auditor, during a press briefing. “This isn’t just vandalism—it’s a direct attack on democracy.”
The drop box in Vancouver was equipped with a fire suppression system, but it failed to stop the flames in time, leading to the destruction of hundreds of ballots.
FBI Joins Investigation into Ballot Box Attacks
Given the serious nature of the attacks, the FBI has been called in to support local law enforcement. Authorities are not yet certain of the suspects’ identities or their exact motives. However, Kimsey believes these acts are tied to an escalating distrust in voting systems, fueled by claims that the 2020 election was manipulated.
“This was a calculated act meant to intimidate voters,” Kimsey explained. “People are feeling fearful, and that’s not the atmosphere we want as we approach election day.”
Ballot drop boxes have become a focal point for debates and conspiracy theories around election integrity, particularly among those who doubt the security of mail-in voting. These theories have only grown since the 2020 election, with some alleging that drop boxes are prone to fraud—a claim election officials widely refute.
Washington State’s Response and Safety Protocols
Washington’s Secretary of State, Steve Hobbs, addressed the public following the incidents, reiterating his commitment to the safety of voters and election staff. He also outlined steps that have been taken to allow affected voters to cast replacement ballots.
“If a ballot was marked ‘received’ in our system, there’s no cause for concern. However, if it wasn’t, voters have the option to print a replacement ballot or visit their local elections office,” Hobbs assured the public.
Security Challenges Facing Election Officials Nationwide
The attacks in Oregon and Washington highlight the challenges election officials face in protecting voter infrastructure amid polarized political climates. Many ballot drop boxes are intentionally placed outside public buildings like libraries and government offices, making them accessible to all. These boxes are designed to be tamper-free, but incidents like these show that no system is entirely secure from determined threats.
“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,” Hobbs declared.
Despite the incidents, Hobbs expressed confidence in Washington’s election security protocols. “I have full confidence in our county election officials. They have a well-tested system to keep Washington’s elections safe and secure for all voters,” he added.
Public Reaction and the Future of Drop Boxes
Across the United States, ballot drop boxes have been a common target of misinformation and unfounded allegations, particularly since 2020. Many Republican figures have criticized them, claiming they could be manipulated to favor certain candidates. Nevertheless, studies and audits from past elections have repeatedly shown that such claims lack basis in fact.
A Vancouver resident, James Holloway, expressed concern over the incidents but voiced his determination to vote. “We can’t let these actions stop us. If people are out there trying to scare us from voting, it’s our job to show them that we won’t be silenced.”
The attacks have added urgency to ongoing debates around election security and the future of ballot drop boxes. While measures are in place to replace ruined ballots, officials face the challenge of ensuring that all voters can cast their ballots without fear of disruption.
As Election Day approaches, the focus on secure and accessible voting methods will continue to grow, with the hope that all Americans can safely participate in the democratic process without threats or intimidation.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
