Oregon Senator Ron Wyden is speaking out against recent arson attacks on ballot drop boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, that resulted in damage to ballots and voter equipment. Wyden condemned the attacks, calling for swift and thorough action by law enforcement to identify and prosecute those responsible. He has urged community members with any information about the incidents to report it to authorities, emphasizing that the motive behind the attacks is irrelevant and that such actions disrupt the democratic process.
The Portland arson incident involved a fire set inside a ballot drop box, which damaged three ballots before the ballot box’s fire suppression system extinguished the flames. Multnomah County officials are reaching out to affected voters so they can recast their ballots and ensure their votes are counted. In Vancouver, Washington, a similar arson attempt was reported, marking the second such incident in the area. Washington election officials confirm that several ballots were damaged, and efforts are underway to identify those voters and issue replacement ballots.
In response to the Portland incident, police have identified a vehicle of interest, and the investigation is progressing with the assistance of the FBI. Both Oregon and Washington election officials are working with law enforcement to secure ballot drop locations and prevent further interference. Wyden’s call for community assistance highlights the importance of public vigilance in protecting voting infrastructure during this election season.
These attacks on ballot boxes underscore concerns over the security of the voting process, prompting state and federal law enforcement to enhance surveillance and preventive measures. Senator Wyden reiterates that such acts of interference will be met with the full force of the law, aiming to reassure voters of their right to a secure and accessible voting system.
