Law enforcement intercepted a letter containing white powder addressed to Washington's Secretary of State elections division Thursday.
OLYMPIA, Wash. — Law enforcement intercepted a letter containing white powder addressed to the Washington Secretary of State’s elections division Thursday, prompting state officials to coordinate with law enforcement to protect election workers and voters.
The Washington Secretary of State’s Office announced the incident Thursday afternoon, Oct. 15, in a statement posted to social media.
Secretary of State Steve Hobbs condemned threats against election officials and candidates and thanked federal partners for investigating the incident.
“An attack on election officials or candidates is an attack on our democracy. I thank our federal partners who are doing everything they can to investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs
The office said it was working closely with law enforcement to keep Washington election workers and voters safe and informed.
Officials have not released additional details about the letter, including where authorities intercepted it, who sent it or whether testing identified the substance.
The office also has not reported whether anyone came into contact with the powder or whether authorities identified any immediate health risks.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not announced any arrests or identified a suspect.
This is a developing story. PNW Daily will update this report as authorities release additional information.
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