Ballot boxes in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, were targeted in a series of arson attacks on Monday, with law enforcement now investigating whether these incidents were politically motivated or intended primarily to create general unrest ahead of the election.

Police discovered devices labeled “Free Gaza” and “Free Palestine” left at the scenes, leading to questions about potential political intent.

In Portland, the attack left three ballots destroyed when a fire ignited at a ballot drop box. Fortunately, the flames were quickly put out by the box’s automatic fire suppression system.

However, in Vancouver, the situation escalated, with a failed suppression system allowing the destruction of hundreds of ballots.

The devices’ strategic placement may have affected the boxes’ ability to contain the fires effectively, according to initial findings.

Investigators Seek Vehicle, Analyze Clues

Law enforcement in both cities has launched investigations to determine if these arsons are connected. Detectives have focused on the possibility that a pro-Palestinian activist -- or someone seeking to exploit the regional conflict -- is responsible for the attacks.

Officers are also searching for a black Volvo S-60 that was seen near the Portland site. The car, lacking a front license plate, has become a critical piece of evidence.

Multnomah County Elections Director Tim Scott has responded by ramping up security around ballot drop boxes. He announced the county had implemented 24-hour roving security patrols to “put eyes on the drop boxes,” as he stated, in an effort to prevent further incidents.

'Attack on American Democracy'

The authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the devices marked with “Free Gaza” were a tactic aimed at creating chaos in the final weeks of the election season.

Investigators have sent the devices for forensic analysis to identify unique markings or writings, a process that Portland Police Bureau spokesman Mike Benner says may yield significant clues.

“I am not aware of markings on the devices, but they have been sent for forensic analysis,” he said, noting that such analysis could play a pivotal role in tracking down those responsible.

Officials described the arson as a “direct attack on American democracy,” emphasizing the severity of the actions. The attacks come on the heels of another unsettling election-related development in Pennsylvania, where investigators recently looked into 2,500 allegedly fraudulent voter applications. These events have raised concerns about election security and possible disruptions leading up to Election Day.

Arson Attacks Could Affect Local Races

Beyond the immediate impact, there are also concerns about how these attacks might influence specific races, including a closely contested congressional election in southwest Washington.

With hundreds of ballots affected, voters are being urged by election officials in Vancouver to replace ballots submitted at the damaged boxes if they were dropped off after late Saturday morning.

Multnomah County’s enhanced security measures reflect the seriousness with which the county is responding to these arsons. Private patrols will monitor ballot boxes around the clock to deter further vandalism or interference.

Forensic Analysis May Reveal Key Evidence

The devices are undergoing detailed forensic scrutiny, and authorities are hoping to discover handwriting or other identifying marks.

Benner confirmed the importance of this analysis, explaining that “unique writings and markings” on the devices could help pinpoint who is responsible. These findings may provide critical evidence for the ongoing investigation.

In both cities, the goal of these heightened efforts is to prevent any further incidents that could disrupt the voting process or intimidate voters.