Governor Jay Inslee of Washington state announced Friday that members of the National Guard have been activated to stand by in response to concerns about potential violence surrounding the 2024 election. This precautionary measure comes after reports of heightened security risks and incidents involving ballot tampering.
Recent Arson Targets Ballot Boxes
Washington, a state where polling suggests a strong lead for Democrat Kamala Harris over Republican Donald Trump, experienced arson attacks on ballot boxes earlier in the week. One incident in Vancouver involved an incendiary device, damaging or destroying hundreds of ballots.
Over Two Million Ballots Already Cast
With early voting underway, more than two million voters in Washington have already submitted their ballots, according to data from the Election Lab at the University of Florida. Inslee emphasized in a letter posted on his website, “Based upon general and specific information and concerns regarding the potential for violence or other unlawful activity related to the 2024 general election, I want to ensure we are fully prepared to respond.”
This activation reflects Washington’s commitment to safeguarding the electoral process amid rising security concerns.
