ST PAUL, Minn. — America may be the land of the free, but there are still some things you can't do when casting your vote Tuesday.
The Minnesota Secretary of State's website shares a list of voting behaviors that are forbidden, and may get you escorted from your local polling place... or worse. Among them:
- Don't enter a polling place unless you are authorized: voters, their minor children, polling place workers and those assisting someone who needs help voting are the only people welcome. Also, don't gather or "linger" directly outside a polling place or within 100 feet of the building.
- No campaigning at or near a polling place: The Secretary of State reminds Minnesota voters they have a right to cast a ballot without someone trying to influence their vote. If the polling place is considered public property, no campaigning anywhere. Also, wearing a campaign shirt, button or carrying political literature that relates to a specific candidate is also prohibited.
- Taking photos is discouraged: Voters have a right to privacy. While Minnesota does not have a law that strictly bans taking pictures or videos in a polling place, both are strongly discouraged for a handful of reasons. Taking pictures can lead to disruptions or conflicts, capturing images takes time and can slow down lines (especially in crowded polling places) and taking a picture of your or someone else's ballot could violate a Minnesota statute about showing one's ballot to another voter.
Anyone who witnesses or experiences activity that appears to be a violation of Minnesota State Election Law is encouraged to speak with the top election judge on site or contact the local county' attorney's office. Other options include:
- Complete a Minnesota State Election Law Complaint Form.
- Cite the election law you believe was violated. Chapters covered include Minnesota statutes Chapter 200 (General Provisions), Chapter 201 (Registration and Eligibility of Voters), Chapter 203B (Absentee Voting), Chapter 204C (Election Day Activities) and Chapter 206 (Voting Systems).
- Have the form notarized and return it to your county attorney for investigation.
- Voters can always call the Minnesota Secretary of State's office for help at 651-215-1440 in the Twin Cities metro, or 1-877-600-VOTE (8683) in Greater Minnesota.
There are also federal laws in place to ensure that all Americans can vote safely and without being intimidated. That includes prohibiting anyone from threatening or coercing you to vote for a certain candidate or party, or interfering and not allowing a person to vote.
If you feel federal voting rights have been violated, reports may be made through the Justice Department’s website or by calling toll-free at 800-253-3931.