Recent events have raised serious concerns about the security of ballots in the United States. On October 28, 2024, multiple ballot boxes were set on fire in Oregon and Washington, prompting an investigation by authorities who believe these incidents are connected. Both fires involved incendiary devices placed near the ballot boxes, with the first reported in Portland around 3:30 a.m. Fortunately, fire suppression systems helped save most of the ballots, but a few were damaged.

In Vancouver, Washington, another ballot box was found on fire around the same time, and police discovered a suspicious device nearby. The Clark County Auditor mentioned that hundreds of ballots may have been affected, and efforts are underway to provide replacement ballots for those impacted. Washington’s Secretary of State, Steve Hobbs, condemned these attacks, emphasizing the importance of protecting the electoral process.

In a separate incident, a Southern California man discovered nearly a dozen mail-in ballots stuffed inside a storm drain while doing yard work in Sierra Madre. Jay Senese noticed the ballots mixed with junk mail and suspects that someone may have rifled through mailboxes in the area. He plans to return the ballots to the post office.

Both Oregon and Washington use a vote-by-mail system, allowing voters to return their ballots by mail or at official drop boxes. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges to ballot security and the need for vigilance in ensuring that every vote counts. Election officials are dedicated to maintaining safe and secure elections for all voters, despite these troubling occurrences.

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