Salem, Oregon- The Oregon Secretary of State’s Elections Division announced the temporary closure of its phone lines today, following an overwhelming number of calls from out-of-state individuals. These calls were spurred by false information circulating on social media regarding the 2024 general election.
At the center of the misinformation is former President Donald Trump’s decision not to submit a statement for the Oregon voters’ pamphlet, a move falsely characterized online as election interference. In reality, this was a voluntary choice made by the Trump campaign. Despite social media posts claiming otherwise, Trump remains listed on the Oregon ballot as the Republican candidate for President.
The Oregon Republican Party, alongside various media outlets, has publicly clarified the situation, stating that no election interference occurred. However, misleading social media posts continue to prompt a high volume of inquiries to the Elections Division, affecting its ability to serve Oregonians.
“Oregonians who need assistance will now have to wait because some individuals operating in bad faith are misleading people online,” said Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade. She emphasized the need for a national effort to reduce the spread of false information. “Spreading rumors and false claims of election interference does nothing to help Oregonians.”
For voters seeking assistance, information remains available on the OregonVotes.gov website, and the Elections Division can be reached via email at elections.sos@sos.oregon.gov. While the phone lines are down, voicemail messages left by voters will be prioritized for response.
The Secretary of State also reminded the public that under Oregon law (ORS 166.065), it is a criminal offense to harass or threaten election workers.
Key Information for Oregon Voters Ahead of the 2024 General Election:
- Election Day: November 5, 2024. Ballots must be received by 8 p.m. or postmarked on that day.
- Ballot Return: Voters can return ballots by mail, at county clerk offices, or via secure drop boxes.
- Postmark Law: Ballots postmarked on or before Election Day will be counted if received within 7 days.
- Results: Preliminary results will be available at 8 p.m. on Election Day, though final results may be delayed due to the postmark law.
- Certification: Election results remain unofficial until certified by county officials.
Voters are encouraged to stay informed and seek verified sources for election-related information.
Source: State of Oregon
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