While the “fashion police” may not be real, and you’re certainly free to let your freak flag fly however you choose sartorially when you’re enjoying your leisure time, be aware that there are certain rules in place about what can and cannot be worn when making your voice heard on Election Day.
As polling places prepare to welcome Americans casting their ballots on November 8, be aware that many states have regulations against wearing shirts, hats or buttons promoting a certain candidate or displaying their likeness.
21 states in fact have laws against what’s called “electioneering,” promoting a candidate or viewpoint within a certain amount of distance around a polling location.
The laws all vary by state, so you should check the website for your local secretary of state for what’s allowed and what’s not at polling locations.
In Illinois, for instance, the law states that each location’s “campaign-free zone” extends 100 feet away from the entrance to the polling location. Election judges determine the exact boundaries.
Illinois also prohibits voter intimidation, with the official election rules website stating, “As a rule, voter intimidation has occurred if a voter feels pressured, threatened or harassed by campaign workers or officials at the polling place. Intimidation is a felony under both federal and Illinois law.”
Obviously, it’s important to know the rules because no one wants to spend time waiting in a long line only to be turned away at the front because of attire that violates the rules.
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