reported that several ballot boxes have been set on fire in Washington and Oregon, raising concerns about voter intimidation and the security of mail-in voting. According to officials, the incidents occurred in different locations and are being investigated as arson attacks.
In Washington, at least three ballot boxes were set on fire in the cities of Everett, Bellevue, and Edgewood. In Oregon, a ballot box in the city of Beaverton was also set ablaze. Authorities have not yet identified any suspects in connection with the attacks.
The incidents have sparked outrage among politicians and community members, with many condemning the actions as an attack on democracy. Washington Governor Jay Inslee called the fires “unacceptable” and urged anyone with information to come forward. Oregon Governor Kate Brown also condemned the attacks, stating that “voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and we will not be intimidated by acts of violence.”
The FBI has been called in to assist with the investigation, and local officials are working to secure other ballot boxes to prevent further attacks. The U.S. Postal Service has also offered to help collect and secure ballots in response to the incidents.
The fires come at a time of heightened tensions surrounding the upcoming presidential election, with concerns about voter suppression and fraud running high. The incidents have raised fears about the safety of mail-in voting, which has become increasingly popular due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the attacks, officials are urging voters to continue using drop boxes and mailing in their ballots, assuring them that security measures are in place to protect their votes. As the investigation continues, authorities are asking for the public’s cooperation in identifying those responsible for the arson attacks.
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