Investigation Launched into Boston Ballot Shortages

Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin has initiated an investigation into the Boston Election Commission following significant ballot shortages during the November 5 election. Reports indicated that several polling places, particularly in Hyde Park, Roslindale, and West Roxbury, ran out of ballots, prompting police to rush additional supplies to these locations. Despite over 766,200 ballots being printed and delivered, election officials noted inadequate communication and poor planning from the Boston Elections Department. Voters faced long delays, with some waiting up to two hours, leading to complaints about the city's election administration. Galvin criticized the situation as unacceptable and contrary to democratic principles, emphasizing that election officials were unable to contact the commission when issues arose. Advocacy groups have called for accountability to prevent similar occurrences in the future.