Federal authorities are investigating suspicious mail sent to election officials in nine states, some containing questionable substances, leading to building evacuations. The FBI and the U.S. Postal Service are working to determine the individual responsible and motive behind the letters. No harm has been reported from the mail so far. This comes amid an already contentious election season, with election offices increasing security measures in response to false claims since the 2020 election. Some states have been alerted to expect similar mail soon.
Election officials in Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Wyoming have all confirmed receiving suspicious mail. The FBI notified Massachusetts and Missouri of incoming suspicious packages, which were isolated and handed over to law enforcement. In Nebraska and Tennessee, substances in the envelopes were determined to be non-hazardous. In Kansas, a government building was evacuated due to suspicious mail, while Oklahoma received an envelope containing a multi-page document and flour.
The National Association of Secretaries of State has condemned the wave of suspicious mail targeting election officials, calling for an end to political violence, threats, and intimidation. With less than 50 days until the general election, officials continue to be on high alert, working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of their staff and the public. The organization expressed gratitude for law enforcement’s handling of the incidents and emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy from such threats.
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