Recently, ballot boxes were attacked or torched in both Washington and Oregon. In a preemptive move, the governors have mobilized their states’ National Guards to prepare. If there are any disruptions to the election, their units will respond. The governors are simply preparing for the future because the past can set a precedent.
National Guard Activation
Washington and Oregon are deploying the National Guard to increase election security. Washington Governor Jay Inslee has taken this action to prevent potential unrest following ballot box arsons in Portland and Vancouver.
The National Guard will collaborate with local law enforcement and the State Patrol to ensure election safety. The number of guardsmen to be deployed is unknown, but they will be on standby from Monday to Thursday night to address any election-related threats.
Oregon’s preparation is similar to Washington’s, with the state “standing ready” and coordinating efforts across local, state, and federal agencies. This measure reflects a growing recognition of potential election-related violence in the Pacific Northwest, with the goal of safeguarding democracy by ensuring a secure voting process.
Decision 2024: National Guard troops on standby in Washington state, Oregon and Nevada as a precaution for ‘potential’ election unrest. https://t.co/3SIYg2aIjc
— KTVZ NewsChannel 21 (@KTVZ) November 3, 2024
Strategic Cooperation
The National Guard’s role is part of a larger partnership that includes several agencies. Portland is taking proactive measures, such as increasing police presence and forming a unified command team, to deal with potential civil unrest.
While no specific threats have been identified, state officials emphasize the importance of taking preventive measures to keep the peace. Portland’s police department has even canceled scheduled vacation time during election week to increase their presence.
“We all deeply believe in our community’s right and ability to exercise free speech, and I believe the vast majority of Portlanders want to come together to do so peacefully” – Mayor Ted Wheeler
Governor Tina Kotek’s office is closely monitoring these efforts to ensure that Oregon voters can safely exercise their right to vote. Continuing instances of ballot box destruction have prompted Oregon and Washington to actively engage their National Guard contingents, following a precedent established in the 2020 elections, when similar measures were also implemented.
Joining @cnn at 4:30pm today on election security. 2 blue state Govs have activated the National Guard for potential unrest, presumably if Trump wins. In no way is this about "well both sides do it." Trump, unlike Harris, promotes violence as a strategy.https://t.co/oZJf2jOX5f
— Juliette Kayyem (@juliettekayyem) November 3, 2024
State Preparedness and Federal Warnings
In response to the Department of Homeland Security’s warnings about potential election infrastructure threats, governors in these states are focusing on preemptive strategies. This preemptive action emphasizes the significance of public safety and election integrity. Governor Jay Inslee stated that these measures are purely precautionary, but necessary in light of recent unrest, particularly in southwestern Washington.
“Our state depends on these skilled individuals for critical support to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, to include support necessary to protect vital infrastructure related to carrying out free and fair elections and to respond to any unrest related to the 2024 general election.” – Jay Inslee
These developments come as discussions about the electoral process’s integrity and the steps required to address security threats continue. As election day approaches, local, state, and federal authorities work together to ensure that democratic processes run smoothly.
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