In a disturbing series of events just over a week before Election Day, ballot boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, were targeted with incendiary devices, leading to fires that have raised alarms about election security. The incidents, occurring in the early hours of October 28, 2024, have been linked by authorities through the identification of a suspect vehicle, a Volvo, seen at both crime scenes.

In Portland, the fire at a ballot drop box was reported around 3:30 a.m. PT. An incendiary device placed inside the box was responsible for the blaze, but fortunately, a fire suppression system within the box activated, protecting nearly all ballots; only three were slightly damaged. The Portland Police Bureau's Explosive Disposal Unit was called in to handle the situation, indicating the severity of the device used.

Shortly after, in Vancouver, Washington, another ballot box was set ablaze, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of ballots. This incident was also attributed to an incendiary device, with Vancouver police noting the involvement of a suspicious device next to the box. Fire suppressant systems in Vancouver's ballot box did not mitigate the damage effectively, leading to significant loss.

The FBI, in coordination with state and local law enforcement, has taken the lead in investigations, confirming that both attacks are believed to be connected not only by the vehicle but also by similarities in the devices used. This connection includes an earlier incident on October 8 in Vancouver, where another suspicious device was found near a ballot box.

Elections officials in both states are taking immediate action to ensure the integrity of the voting process. In Portland, the three affected voters will receive replacement ballots, while in Vancouver, the elections office is increasing ballot collection frequencies and changing collection times to reduce the risk of similar incidents.

These acts of arson have sparked a wave of concern and outrage across social platforms like X, where users have expressed fears over voter suppression and the safety of the electoral process. The incidents come at a time when election officials nationwide are on high alert due to previous warnings about potential threats to election infrastructure, especially in light of the highly competitive House races occurring in the region.

The investigations into these fires are ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. The acts not only threaten the democratic process but also highlight the ongoing challenges in securing election systems from sabotage or disruption. As the nation approaches Election Day, these events serve as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities in the electoral process and the need for heightened security measures around voting facilities.