Election in US: Ballot boxes set on fire in two states
Photo: Ballot boxes were set on fire in two US states (Getty Images)
In two US states, just under a week before the presidential elections, ballot boxes were set on fire, destroying hundreds of ballots, CNN reports.
The incidents occurred in the Pacific Northwest of the US in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, on Monday, October 28. In Portland, the fire destroyed a few ballots, while in Vancouver, hundreds were burned. Police identified a suspicious Volvo S-60 vehicle from 2001-2004 near the fire in Portland.
These incidents are believed to be connected to a third case that occurred on October 8 in Vancouver, where there was an attempt to set fire to a ballot box.
The New York Times, citing law enforcement sources, reported that incendiary devices with the phrase Free Gaza were found in both cities. Investigators are looking for those responsible for the arson. Authorities are trying to determine whether the suspects are pro-Palestinian activists or provocateurs.
CNN contacted the Portland Police Bureau, which declined to comment on reports of the inscriptions on the devices but stated that they had been sent for forensic examination to check for "unique writings and markings."
According to observers, the ballot box in Portland has already been replaced, and law enforcement in Multnomah and Vancouver plans to increase patrols around the ballot boxes.
Election in the US
On Tuesday, November 5, the United States will hold presidential elections. The main contenders for the presidency are Republican representative Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.
According to the latest Reuters poll, Harris has nearly lost her lead over Trump, with her support at 44% and Trump's at 43%.
