Three states targeted this week

Election offices in Ohio, Louisiana and Oklahoma received packages with mysterious white powders. The U.S. Postal Service intercepted Ohio's package before delivery.

Timing raises alarm

The mailings arrived just weeks before the offices are set to oversee the midterm elections. National election groups expressed concern about threats to election officials.

National groups respond

The National Association of Secretaries of State and the National Association of State Election Directors said threats against election officials have no place in democracy.

“Threats against election officials and workers have no place in our democracy.”

Ohio's response

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said election officials should never fear for their safety while performing duties. His office is working with state and federal law enforcement.

“never have to fear for their personal safety while performing their duties”

Louisiana's incident

An employee in Louisiana's Election Division opened a package containing white powder and was taken to the emergency room as a precaution. Law enforcement found no evidence of harmful substances.

Oklahoma assures voters

Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax said the incident does not impact the state's ability to conduct elections. Election officials remain committed to safe and secure elections.

Federal investigation underway

The FBI and U.S. Postal Service are investigating suspicious mailings sent to various addresses nationwide, including secretary of state offices and election offices.

Pattern from 2024

This is not the first time election officials have faced threats near an election.In 2024, at least twenty states received letters with suspicious powders, including one signed by a so-called United States Traitor Elimination Army.