Local election officials in Pennsylvania are facing individual decisions on how to handle “passive electioneering” at the polls. Currently, there are regulations prohibiting campaigning for a candidate outside the polls.
State Republicans are pushing for a stronger interpretation of the law. They do not want voters to come in with T-shirts, buttons or other political decorations, even if they do not advocate for the candidates directly.
In the past, some polling places have taken the position of the GOP. They have even required voters to turn their T-shirts inside out before voting. Other polling sites let the voter go straight to the voting booth as long as they do not talk to anyone about their candidate.
State officials are continuing to let local officials decide. The state says the law is clear that campaigning cannot go on outside a polling site. However, the law is unclear about “passive electioneering” during voting.
Two election officials are taking the state to court to clarify the matter. They fear the different standards will lead to confusion.
In Montgomery County, no candidate paraphernalia will be allowed inside the 418 polling stations. In Philadelphia, there are no restrictions on voting attire as long as the voter is only voting.
Pennsylvania is a battleground state. Is the next voting scandal going to erupt on November 5 because voters were turned away when wearing Obama or Palin T-shirts?
Wanted you to know that I’m adding a link to your post about voting attire to my blog. The whole thing is so crazy to me!
Thanks and Peace.