Sandoval County Clerk Anne Brady‑Romero told local media on Wednesday that the county’s election warehouse has fully cleared a box of absentee ballots that tested positive for illicit drugs. The ballots, which were discovered on Oct. 16, 2026, have been deemed safe to handle and will be counted with the rest of the mail‑in votes.

Quick action by county officials

Initial testing by Homeland Security Investigations revealed the presence of methamphetamine and fentanyl on a swab taken from the sealed container. The box was immediately secured by an Albuquerque Fire Rescue hazmat unit and placed under strict control in the county’s Bureau of Election Warehouse.

County Manager Wayne Johnson explained that the sealed box remained in a controlled environment while forensic experts confirmed the drug residues. Once the investigation concluded that the contamination posed no risk to the integrity of the ballots, the Absentee Ballot Board was tasked with reintegrating the ballots into the counting process.

Officials emphasize ballot security

“All absentee ballots involved in the illicit drug contamination incident on Oct. 16 have been cleared and none will be spoiled,” Brady‑Romero said. She added that the ballots have been “deemed safe to handle” and that the county will continue to monitor the situation closely.

The swift response underscores the county’s commitment to protecting the voting process and ensuring that every eligible New Mexican’s voice is heard. By acting quickly and transparently, Sandoval County officials aim to maintain public confidence in the upcoming elections.

What this means for voters

Voters in Sandoval County can rest assured that the mail‑in ballots in question will be counted alongside all other absentee votes. The county’s election staff has reiterated that the presence of drug residues on the container does not affect the ballots themselves, which remain sealed in individual envelopes.

Residents who have questions about the handling of their absentee ballots are encouraged to contact the Sandoval County Clerk’s office directly. The office has pledged to provide updates as needed and to keep the community informed of any further developments.

Continuing vigilance

While the incident was unusual, county officials say it highlights the importance of rigorous security protocols at every stage of the voting process. The collaboration between local law‑enforcement, federal investigators, and election staff demonstrates a coordinated effort to safeguard the democratic process.

Sandoval County will continue to follow best practices for ballot handling and will remain vigilant against any threats to election integrity.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.