Dump Truck Destroys Aurora Ballot Box in Church Parking Lot
Just days before the highly contested midterm elections, a ballot box, located outside of an Aurora church, was destroyed in an unfortunate accident involving a dump truck. The impact of this incident has left many residents questioning the fairness and transparency of the voting process in their community.
The ballot box, bolted to a concrete pad outside of Living Water Christian Center Church, was ripped out of the ground by the force of the truck's collision. This crucial voting location was not replaced before Election Day, leaving many residents wondering if their voices would truly be heard in this important election.
Thomas Mayes, pastor at Living Water Christian Center Church, stands next to where a construction truck hit and damaged a nearby ballot box in late October. (Olivia Sun, The Colorado Sun via Report for America)
But what makes this incident even more concerning is the timing and location of the crash.
The church's pastor, Thomas Mayes, is one of four candidates running for two at-large City Council seats. The ballot box was not only conveniently located at his church, but also had his name displayed on the outside.
According to Adams County officials, the crash was unintentional and all ballots inside the box were secured. But this mere explanation is not enough for Mayes and his supporters, who believe this was a deliberate attempt to disrupt his campaign and discourage certain members of the community from voting.
(INSERT VOTER PIC)
The destruction of the ballot box also raises concerns about the accessibility of polling locations for those with limited transportation. The next closest ballot boxes are a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive away, making it difficult for those without reliable transportation to cast their votes. This is a clear example of how the system fails to consider the needs of low income and marginalized communities.
As a reaction to the loss of this ballot drop off location, community and advocacy groups are now rallying together to provide transportation to nearby polling locations for those who cannot make it to the alternative ballot boxes.
READ MORE:
NEWLY APPROVED COLORADO CENTER PARTY AIMS TO COURT DISILLUSIONED VOTERS
FEDERAL JUDGE ADVANCES LAWSUIT AGAINST SOS GRISWOLD OVER DEAD VOTER DATA
Adams County officials have assured that they are working diligently to restore the ballot box before the next major election.
While the investigation is ongoing and police are working to determine the cause of the crash, Pastor Mayes believes this incident may ultimately have a positive effect on voter turnout.