Did you know there are rules about what you can and cannot wear while you vote?
Oklahoma’s electioneering laws clearly state electioneering is prohibited within 300 feet of any ballot box while an election is in progress.
So what is electioneering?
“Electioneering, very simply, is advocating for or against a candidate or issue that is on the ballot.” Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax told KRMG. "
Ziriax said electioneering is a crime in Oklahoma if it’s taking place within 300 feet of a ballot box while an election is in progress. He said that does include early voting.
This means you cannot wear political T-shirts, jackets, sweaters, hats, beanies scarves, etc. if they relate to a specific candidate or issue in the current election. You cannot wear political buttons, masks or other accessories for the same reason.
The Oklahoma State Election Board spells out the electioneering law the Election Day Reference and Problem Solver.
There are other election laws voters may not be aware of in Oklahoma.
State law says you cannot hang around the ballot box after you have voted.
“No persons, except election officials and persons who are voting or waiting to vote, are allowed within 50 feet of any ballot box while an election is in progress.”
It is also against Oklahoma law to tell others how you voted while you’re still at the polling place.
“It is unlawful for a voter to disclose to any other person how they voted or to expose their ballot to any person within the election enclosure.”
What about ballot selfies? If you want to share with your friends on social media that you have fulfilled your civic duty, you can, but you have to wait.
The law states: “Ballot Selfies” ARE permissible, but it is unlawful to post the “Ballot Selfie” or show it while in the election enclosure."
Once you’ve left the polling place, you are allowed to post ballot selfies, according to the Oklahoma State Election Board.
Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax explains the electioneering laws here