Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) released the following statement regarding yesterday’s response to a suspicious device near a ballot drop box in Vancouver:

“Yesterday morning, a suspicious device was placed near a ballot drop box in downtown Vancouver. After a caller reported seeing smoke near the ballot drop box, the Metro Explosive Disposal Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives responded and safely removed the device from the area. I’m grateful for the local law enforcement officers and federal agent who responded to the scene.

Political violence against people or property has no place in America, including any violence against our election infrastructure and election workers. Washington’s vote-by-mail system is safe, secure, and reliable, and I’m confident local and federal law enforcement can keep our democratic process safe from those who wish to undermine it and intimidate Americans from exercising their right to vote.”