WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Sedgwick County election officials tell KSN what people can and cannot do while voting.
KSN speaks with Election Commissioner Laura Rainwater, who says electioneering is not allowed within 250 yards of any polling location.
This means no campaigning of any kind or wearing campaign signs, t-shirts or hats that could influence a voter’s decision. She says this law was created to ensure a free and fair election, where voters should not face pressure or distraction while voting.
“The purpose of it is so that you’re not influencing the votes of others. That’s why we have electioneering laws in Kansas: because we don’t want to show influence over others. And their right to cast an independent ballot. You know, having that influence,” said Rainwater.
She adds that election workers have caught some people breaking the rules, but they abided by them once workers told them about the law.
If you refuse to follow rules, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, which could result in a $500 fine or up to 30 days in jail.