What you can and cannot show or wear while voting

BATAVIA, Ohio (WXIX) – In early October, an Ohio man was filmed at the ballot box wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat, sparking a debate about whether it could be considered electioneering.

The incident occurred in front of the Clermont County Board of Elections. The video went viral on social media when an official asked a voter to remove his hat.

Clermont County has broken new early voting records, according to Clermont County Board of Elections Deputy Director Chris Dennison.

He says if early voting is any indication, turnout on Election Day should be high and it’s important to pay attention to what can’t be worn.

“They cannot wear any campaign attire. Hats, buttons, T-shirts with the name of the party for or against, the political party for or against, the candidate for or against, or for or against an issue on the ballot,” Dennison told FOX19 NOW.

Ohio Code states that it is illegal to campaign within a polling place zone, or within 10 feet of a voter line if it extends beyond that zone.

If the code merely states that campaigning is not permitted, it is up to Secretary of State Frank LaRose to enforce the code.

on Friday, LaRose echoed what Dennison said about what is and isn’t allowed at the ballot box. Voters may not wear or display:

Costume or accessories with the name of a political party
Outfit or accessories with the candidate’s name and surname
Attire or accessories expressing support or opposition to a voting question or issue

LaRose said slogans related to a political party, candidate or cause are allowed as long as they do not violate the three rules.

Dennison says it enforces these rules because it wants to make sure everyone can exercise their freedom to vote as freely as possible.

“We don’t want to intimidate anyone. If you’re standing next to someone dressed as someone you’re not voting for, you might feel a little intimidated,” Dennison said.

The zone protected against agitation will be clearly marked at the polling stations. If the line crosses this point, people cannot try to tell someone standing in line to vote how to vote.

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