Tons of Voting Ballots Caught on Fire
By Olirena Tuamohelo, November 5th 2024
Incidents of arson targeting ballot boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, have stirred concerns about the security of election processes in both states. In Vancouver, an incendiary device caused nearly 500 ballots to be damaged when it was set inside a ballot box, burning many beyond recovery. Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey confirmed that about 475 ballots were retrieved, but some were destroyed and could not be salvaged. Meanwhile, in Portland, a similar attack damaged three ballots, though a fire suppressant within the ballot box helped preserve most of the ballots.
The two attacks, which occurred within 15 miles of each other, are under investigation by local, state, and federal authorities. Officials have indicated that early evidence suggests a connection between the incidents, and a suspect vehicle has already been identified. The FBI Seattle Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office released a joint statement vowing to work closely and quickly to identify those responsible and hold them accountable.
Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Amanda McMillan emphasized the intentional nature of the attacks, stating, “We don’t know the motive behind these acts. We do know acts like this are targeted and intentional, and we’re concerned about that intentional act trying to impact the election process.” Washington Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who is running for re-election in a closely watched race, called the arson “unpatriotic” and echoed the call for swift action to safeguard voters’ rights.
Election officials in both states have moved to reassure voters, noting the reliability of their systems for tracking and verifying ballots. Oregon’s Multnomah County Elections Division reported that the fire suppressant inside the Portland ballot box protected nearly all of the ballots, with only three showing damage. Affected voters are being contacted, and both Oregon and Washington voters can replace ballots lost or damaged in the fires, ensuring no one is disenfranchised due to the incidents.
Both Washington and Oregon have strong election administration systems that include safeguards for tracking ballots. Officials have also been working to keep the public informed about options to replace damaged ballots, underlining the efforts to ensure voters can participate securely. However, the attacks reflect the broader challenges facing election security. While attacks on ballot boxes are rare, the incidents underscore how both violence and intimidation, if left unchecked, could impact the democratic process.
Federal and state laws criminalize ballot tampering and related activities. In Washington, tampering with voting materials is strictly prohibited, while Oregon law bars willful destruction of ballots. Federal statutes provide additional measures, making it a crime to destroy ballots or interfere with voting.
The recent incidents are a stark reminder of the importance of protecting democratic processes and voter access, especially in a politically charged environment. Although election officials remain committed to ensuring a fair and accessible election, the potential for violence and fear could still impact voter turnout. With the 2024 election approaching, law enforcement agencies at all levels are prioritizing investigations into these attacks, aiming to reassure the public that free and fair elections remain a priority.
These attacks underscore the need for vigilance among law enforcement and election officials alike. As voters head to the polls, authorities are working to maintain a secure environment, ensuring that every eligible voter can cast their ballot without fear of interference or intimidation.
