Washington County citizens demand election integrity reforms amid concerns over voter registration issues

During the Washington County Board of Commissioners public meeting on December 10, 2024, significant concerns regarding election integrity were raised by community members. The discussions highlighted a growing dissatisfaction with the current election processes and called for immediate reforms to restore public trust.

Former county commissioner Bob Terry opened the dialogue by expressing serious doubts about the validity of recent elections, claiming they violate citizens' civil rights. He emphasized the need for Washington County to disconnect its election system from state control, advocating for "home rule" to ensure transparency and integrity in the voting process. Terry pointed out issues such as the handling of ballots and the lack of proper oversight in voter registration, particularly in public housing, which he argued could lead to fraudulent registrations.

Another speaker, who identified themselves as Mr. Woods, echoed these sentiments, citing alarming statistics about illegal voter registrations in Oregon. He called for a transparent, bipartisan audit of elections to ensure that the integrity of the electoral process is upheld. Woods also noted that the county's voting machines have faced breakdowns, leading to recounts that have not been reliable.

Janet Bailey, a resident of Tualatin, further stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that Washington County has received negative attention due to perceived election law violations. She urged the commissioners to take action to clean up voter rolls, require identification for voting, and ensure that elections are conducted fairly and transparently.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from the community: residents are demanding accountability and reform in the electoral process. The commissioners were urged to listen to their constituents and take steps to restore confidence in Washington County's elections. As the conversation continues, the board faces pressure to address these critical issues that directly impact the democratic process and the trust of the electorate.