(Columbus) - Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose issued the following statement today regarding a security incident targeting his office:
“We are working with state and federal law enforcement after confirming that our office was the intended recipient of a suspicious mailing that contained a powdery white substance. Fortunately, delivery of the letter was preempted by investigators at the U.S. Postal Service, who are dealing with similar mailings sent to election officials in multiple states. We’re grateful for their swift action. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is handling the matter here in Ohio, and we have informed our county boards of elections to be vigilant in the days ahead.
Election officials should never have to fear for their personal safety while performing their duties, and there is no place in a peaceful democracy for violence, threats or acts of intimidation. We have a duty to the citizens of Ohio to deliver secure and accessible elections, and these kinds of cowardly threats will not deter us from that mission.
We also have security protocols and contingency plans in place for every election, and we are constantly working with law enforcement to review and improve them as part of our readiness planning for every election. Voters can have absolute confidence that the election process remains safe and secure.”