Leave Your Political Opinions to Yourself at the Polls

Although some people may be enthusiastic about their political candidate and openly endorse them by sporting hats, t-shits pins and the like, beware of wearing them to the polls. No matter who you are voting for, whether its John McCain or Barack Obama, please do not wear any political paraphernalia on Nov. 4th, at least not while you are on your way to vote. Once you get home and are comfortable looking at all the media coverage, then wear what you want. Campaigning at or near an election poll is illegal and will cause you to get turned away. This rule will be strongly enforced, probably with the hopes that people will become frustrated and not return to cast their vote. The excitement of getting to the polls and having passion for the candidates may cause some people who don't know to get turned away for their exuberance for their choice demonstrated with their apparel.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution newpaper article Voting Early Or At Polls: What You Need to Know that was published on September 22, 2008 gave detailed information on what voters need to know, "Campaigning is not allowed at polling places so poll workers will turn away anyone wearing a campaign T-shirt, button, cap or anything else advocating a candidate or a political party."

You would be surprised by how many voters are turned around for various reasons. In some states you have to have your political affiliation picked before you vote. During the Primary elections in Connecticut you had to have your affiliation decided before you voted. For people that were turned away for this reason, they were told to correct it and then return in November. In New Jersey you can be an independent and vote for either party. Its so important to know your rights before you go to the polls.