In Phoenix, Arizona, a blue U.S. Postal Service mailbox was set on fire, damaging several ballots and other pieces of mail. The incident occurred at 1:20 a.m. Thursday morning at the Post Office at 3905 North 7th Avenue. Approximately 20 ballots were damaged, according to the Phoenix Fire Department, though the exact number is still being determined by the Arizona Secretary of State’s office. The authorities, including the fire and police departments, are investigating the incident, and surveillance footage is being analyzed by investigators.
Federal authorities have cautioned about the intentional damage of ballots in the lead-up to Election Day. Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes expressed concern over the arson attack, calling it a deliberate act of vandalism that undermines the democratic process. The Maricopa County recorder’s office advised voters to check the status of their ballot online and request a replacement if necessary.
Fontes praised the quick response of the fire department and mentioned that fire suppression equipment has been sent to prevent such incidents and protect the electoral process across Arizona. The motive behind the arson attack has not yet been identified, and the Postal Inspector has taken possession of the damaged mail. Voters impacted by the incident can request a replacement ballot by visiting the appropriate website.
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