Decision Day 2024: What to Know About Polling Place Rules and Dress Code

(KNSI) — Election Day is finally here, and there are some rules and regulations about what can and can’t be worn or done around polling places.

According to the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office, “You have the right to vote without anyone in the polling place trying to influence your vote,” so campaigning is not allowed inside or within 100 feet of the building. If the polling place is on public property, no one can campaign anywhere on the property, even beyond 100 feet. Some places are adjacent to private homes and properties, so the 100 foot rule does not apply.

Speaking of no campaigning inside polling places, leave the MAGA or Harris Walz hats in the car and Trump/Vance or Harris Walz shirts at home, or keep them covered. Campaign shirts, buttons or literature that relate to specific candidates, official political parties, or ballot questions on the ballot that day is strictly prohibited.

While no law is on the books in Minnesota saying someone can’t take a picture or video of marking their ballot, it is strongly discouraged. Other voters have a right to privacy regarding how they voted and whether or not someone has voted. Either or both of those rights could be compromised by pictures or video. In addition, the Secretary of State says other voters’ objections to being photographed could lead to disruptions within a polling place. Also, lines may be long, and polling places may be crowded with high voter turnout, so while voters have a right to take the time they need to vote, they should not take extra time to take pictures. In addition, Minnesota Statutes 204C.17 and Minnesota Statutes 204C.18 prohibit voters from showing their marked ballot to others, and “taking pictures or video of your own marked ballot could violate that.”

While some states or cities say they will have heightened security with police or National Guard members around polling stations, local officials KNSI News spoke with said there is a state law banning police officers from being inside or standing within 50 feet outside of a polling place unless they are called there for a specific reason by an election judge, or if they are voting. If police are called, we have been told they will “respond in an appropriate manner.”

The U.S. Department of Justice is in charge of federal voting rights and will be in Minnesota today to monitor compliance at a handful of precincts. If someone believes that voter suppression, discrimination, fraud, or other election irregularities have occurred, they are encouraged to call 1-877-600-VOTE (8683) to reach the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State. Its website says the office will make sure the proper authorities are aware and can determine whether to follow up on concerns.

Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and anyone in line at 8:00 p.m. can still vote. The right to vote is federally protected, and workers are allowed time away from their place of employment to cast their ballot.

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