Burned Ballots: A New Challenge for Election Security

In the lead-up to the 2024 election, two ballot drop boxes in the Pacific Northwest were targeted by suspected arson attacks. This isn't the first time drop boxes have faced trouble, but the recent incidents have sparked fresh concerns. Let's break down what happened and why this is a big deal. On Monday, October 28, 2024, a ballot drop box in Portland, Oregon, caught fire. Luckily, a fire suppression system kicked in, saving most of the ballots. Only three were damaged. In Vancouver, Washington, however, a similar incident destroyed hundreds of ballots because the fire suppression system failed. Authorities are investigating the incidents, which they believe are connected to a previous attack in Vancouver on October 8. Drop boxes have been around for a while in states like Colorado, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. They became even more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic as a safer option for voters. Today, 27 states and the District of Columbia allow them. But their security varies. In some places, drop boxes are monitored 24/7, while in others, they're only accessible during office hours. So, how should these boxes be secured? Experts suggest placing them in high-traffic areas with video surveillance. They should also be locked and well-lit when not in use. But even with these precautions, issues still arise. There have been sporadic problems over the years, like drop boxes being hit by cars or set on fire. One big factor contributing to the recent concerns is election conspiracy theories. Some people falsely claim that drop boxes were used for massive voter fraud in 2020. These theories have been debunked, but they persist and have even led to armed vigilantes showing up at drop boxes in some states. Since the 2020 election, some states have tightened rules around mail voting, including the use of drop boxes. Six states have banned them altogether. Others have reduced their availability. For example, Georgia's Fulton County, which has over 1 million residents, now has only 10 drop boxes for this year's election, down from 38 in 2020. As Election Day approaches, it's clear that drop boxes are a vital part of the voting process. But they also face unique challenges. It's crucial to ensure they're secure and that voters feel confident using them.