Ballot Shortages in Boston Prompt Dual Investigations

Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin has announced an investigation into Boston's Election Commission following a ballot shortage at several polling places during Election Day. The shortage affected areas such as Hyde Park and West Roxbury, resulting in delays and some voters being turned away, which Galvin described as a breach of democratic principles. Despite being provided with hundreds of thousands of ballots, the commission failed to deliver them effectively, leaving some precincts without sufficient supplies. Galvin criticized the commission's lack of communication, noting that many attempts to reach them went unanswered, and suggested that the appointment of a receiver might be necessary to oversee future elections. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu acknowledged the issue, attributing it to unexpectedly high voter turnout and announced the city is conducting its own investigation. This incident has raised significant concerns about election management and voter access in one of Massachusetts’ largest cities.