National Guard assigned to watch Snohomish County ballot boxes

Washington National Guard troops will begin watching ballot drop boxes in Snohomish County this week. Governor Bob Ferguson confirmed the deployment on Friday. The guard is also monitoring boxes in six other counties.

Ferguson proposed the "Election Neighborhood Watch" in a letter to county auditors earlier this month. He cited recent letters containing white powder sent to the secretary of state and other officials. The letter stated the administration is taking precautions to ensure every vote counts.

The governor also referenced a 2024 incident in Clark County. An incendiary device burned hundreds of ballots at a drop box. Former Governor Jay Inslee activated the National Guard in response.

Snohomish County accepted the offer out of an abundance of caution, according to Sierra Cornelius, a spokesperson for the auditor's office. She said the state resources will add a layer of support to existing security plans.

Soldiers will report to the Snohomish County auditor. They will remain unarmed and wear plainclothes. Their role is limited to watching boxes during evening and overnight hours. They will not empty boxes, handle ballots, or interact with voters.

If soldiers see anything concerning, they will call 911. Local law enforcement will then respond. The county and governor's office did not specify how many troops are assigned to Snohomish County. They cited operational safety for National Guard personnel.

The National Guard is also assigned to Island, King, Pierce, Thurston, Clark, and Lewis counties. Brionna Aho, a spokesperson for the governor's office, noted the guard has provided cybersecurity support for every election since 2016. Election officials are urging voters to use drop boxes before Tuesday's election. The secretary of state's office stated on Friday that mailing ballots less than a week before Election Day may result in late postmarks.