JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A suspicious package was sent to the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Elections Division on Monday, September 16.

Similar packages were distributed to other states across the country.

“Thanks to information provided by federal agencies and partners, our office had been notified of the potential package and was on high alert. Upon receipt, our staff handled the package in accordance with guidelines distributed by federal agents, and the package was promptly picked up by the Mississippi Department of Homeland Security where it is currently being tested,” said Secretary of State Michael Watson (R-Miss.).

According to Watson, other states confirmed the packages included a white, powdery substance that did not contain hazardous materials.

The Elections Division notified county election officials of the incident and urged extra precaution.