An investigation is underway in Maine after a resident reported discovering 250 unfilled absentee ballots in an Amazon package delivered to his home last week, just ahead of the state’s election on November 4.
“Those responsible will face arrest and punishment,” stated Maine Secretary of State Shena Bellows during a press conference on Monday.
Bellows mentioned that both state law enforcement and the FBI are looking into the matter.
“We are receiving regular updates regarding the investigation,” she added. “I believe law enforcement will identify those involved and ensure accountability for any wrongdoings.”
This incident is significant, happening mere weeks before Maine’s elections, which include a referendum on implementing photo ID requirements and reducing reliance on drop boxes for voting.
Bellows remarked, “This year seems to have seen attempts to disrupt ballot distribution,” and assured residents that “election officials and law enforcement have consistently risen to the occasion to tackle challenges.” She also expressed gratitude towards law enforcement for their efforts to uncover the truth and pursue those who threaten electoral integrity. “We are always ready to adapt to prevent election interference,” she noted.
According to reports, a woman in Newburgh, Maine, received the ballots alongside other household items in an Amazon shipment.
On the same day, residents in Ellsworth reported absent absentee ballots as another individual noted that their voting materials arrived unexpectedly in an Amazon package while they were still in the mailing process.
Reportedly, the package was damaged and had been re-taped, indicating possible tampering. It contained household items as well as bundles of ballots, which were packaged in tamper-evident batches, identical to those used for official distributions to local electoral officials. Officials who examined photographs confirmed the authenticity of the ballots for the upcoming election.
In response to the situation, Amazon stated they are not involved. An Amazon spokesperson said, “Our findings suggest this package was tampered with outside our fulfillment and delivery systems, and not by our employees or partners.”
