With election tensions mounting, Washington and Oregon deploy National Guard units for the 2024 General Election, aiming to safeguard democracy under the cloud of recent ballot box vandalism.
At a Glance
- Washington Governor Jay Inslee activates the National Guard in response to arsons on ballot boxes.
- The National Guard will assist local law enforcement, providing critical support amid growing public tension.
- Homeland Security warns of potential political violence affecting election infrastructure.
- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek keeps the National Guard on standby, working with local and federal authorities.
Washington Takes Proactive Measures
Washington Governor Jay Inslee has activated the National Guard after recent acts of vandalism on ballot boxes in Portland and Vancouver, Washington. This decision was made as a preventive measure to bolster state patrol and local law enforcement in anticipation of potential election-related threats. The exact number of Guard members is yet to be determined, with their deployment coordinated through Homeland Security and local agencies.
Jay Inslee’s decision reflects the state’s commitment to protecting electoral integrity, reinforced by a statement from his office highlighting a comprehensive strategy to monitor and mitigate risks surrounding the election. The National Guard is expected to be on standby from November 4 through November 7, marking a period of heightened awareness and preparedness.
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
Oregon’s Coordinated Preparedness
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek ensures the state’s readiness by keeping the National Guard prepared for potential deployment. While no current unrest has been reported, the coordination with federal, state, and local agencies aims to guarantee a smooth voting process. Governor Kotek emphasizes that the proximity to Election Day calls for vigilance but assures that the state is equipped to respond effectively to any potential unrest.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler has reassured the public that although unrest is not expected, the city is prepared for any eventualities. Portland law enforcement is collaborating with the Oregon State Police and the Department of Emergency Management to provide increased security, just as businesses in the area take additional precautions by boarding up windows.
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
A Historical Context and Future Outlook
The deployment of National Guard units for election security isn’t unprecedented, as seen in 2020 when Oregon also employed guardsmen. The growing concerns raised by recent ballot box fires and vandalism have prompted a more unified effort to guard against election disruptions. The Department of Homeland Security continues to issue warnings about potential threats, pressing local governments to remain alert.
The decisions by the governors of Washington, Oregon, and Nevada reflect a growing trend of prudent measures to preempt election challenges, thereby ensuring the safeguarding of democratic processes throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Sources:
Washington Activates National Guard, Oregon “Standing Ready”, Heading Into Election Day
Washington, Oregon, Nevada governors activate National Guard in event of election unrest this week
Western States Prepare National Guard Soldiers for Election Day Duty
