the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, with Election Day approaching on November 5 (and early voting open until November 3), you might be planning your outfit for the polls. But before you throw on that favorite political tee or campaign button, it’s essential to know the rules — yes, even what you wear can impact your voting experience. According to NJ.gov, certain attire is actually illegal at polling places to ensure an unbiased voting environment.
The Rules on Political Clothing
In New Jersey, and 20 other states, wearing clothing or accessories that support or oppose a candidate, party, or issue on the ballot is prohibited within polling sites and even within 100 feet of their entrances. This includes political badges, buttons, hats, t-shirts, or any other item that may be viewed as electioneering — essentially, campaigning at the polls.
Electioneering laws apply to a variety of items, from a “MAGA” hat to a retro “Obama-Biden 2012” shirt or even pop culture references like a “Vote for Pedro” tee. Restrictions extend to smaller items too, like political pens, stickers, and buttons, to keep polling places neutral and intimidation-free.
States with Electioneering Laws
Aside from New Jersey, other states with laws banning political attire at polling places include Arkansas, California, Delaware, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Vermont, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
The purpose of these laws? They aim to prevent the influence or intimidation that can occur when political affiliations are displayed within polling sites. Restrictions aren’t limited to inside polling locations, either; in most states, electioneering apparel must be kept 50 to 200 feet away from the entrance.
What Happens If You Violate the Dress Code?
If you show up wearing something political, poll workers have the authority to ask you to cover or remove the item. While dress code violations don’t usually prevent you from voting, failure to comply may lead to penalties in certain states. For instance, in Kansas, electioneering apparel within 250 feet of a polling site is considered a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail or a $500 fine. In Michigan, it’s also a misdemeanor to wear political items within 100 feet of the voting booths.
Can You Be Turned Away from Voting?
Poll workers cannot intimidate or harass voters, and dress code violations alone are not grounds to prevent someone from casting a ballot. The main reasons for denied voting are issues related to voter ID or eligibility.
So this Election Day, check your outfit before heading out to the polls to ensure a smooth and compliant voting experience!
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Let me guess. MAGA hat no. BLM t-shirt yes.
Wearing a hefty garbage bag.
“If you show up wearing something political…..” – whose discretion is this? if I show up with a sweatshirt that says “Let’s go Brandon” would I be considered in violation? It doesn’t mention any politician or party and the color is white.
In NJ I think you can vote in your underwear.