Washington National Guard to monitor ballot boxes

The Washington National Guard has been deployed to monitor ballot drop boxes in several counties, including Snohomish and Island, ahead of the upcoming general election. This measure follows an offer from Governor Bob Ferguson to provide election security assistance to county auditors across the state.

Governor Ferguson initiated the support, described as an “Election Neighborhood Watch,” in response to recent developments, including officials receiving letters containing white powder and the highly charged political atmosphere. The deployment also references a 2024 incident in Clark County where ballots were damaged by an incendiary device.

In both Snohomish and Island counties, officials stated the Guard will act out of an abundance of caution to add a layer of security to existing plans. National Guard members will be unarmed, in plainclothes, and will not wear uniforms. Their duties are strictly limited to observing ballot boxes overnight and reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement via 911. They are prohibited from emptying boxes, handling ballots, or interacting with voters.