Believe it or not, elections have dress codes. Here in the state of Texas, you cannot wear any paraphernalia that aligns with any political party, ballot measure or a specific candidate.
After talking to many voters at the Killeen Community Center, not a single one had any idea that a voting dress code exists. Luckily, none of them unknowingly violated the dress code, but they all unanimously agree that it shouldn’t be a thing.
“Whatever you want to wear, if you want to wear a Trump shirt, it shouldn’t matter,” said Alexis Hood.
“I feel that people should have freedom to express who they want to vote for,” said Abigail Webb.
A plain over-sized sweatshirt or a cozy denim jacket, Hood and Webb pass the election dress code test. But Biden buttons, Make America Great Again hats, or anything promoting a political party or candidate would not pass.
Hood says she doesn't give much thought to other people's political views, but she knows others do.
"It doesn’t really bother me. Some people, it will probably get under their skin and they might be ready to fight, but not really. I feel like everybody is entitled to their own opinion," said Hood.
While Webb feels restricting people's attire at the polls isn't fair, she says she understands that it could create some hostility.
”I feel like at the end of the day now, people are very judgmental on your opinions, so that makes it a little bit harder, you know, for people to express what they want to express,” said Hood.
The potential for a hostile voting environment is why Dr. John Koehler says electioneering is considered a Class C misdemeanor in Texas .
“Which could come with a fine up to $500. Buttons, t-shirts, hats, ties, all that is prohibited in the polling places because it is considered electioneering, which is prohibited within 100 ft of a polling place,” said Dr. Koehler.
Though it's unlikely you would get fined, Dr. Koehler explains it's really up to the poll workers to apply these rules.
“I’m sure that there are plenty people who have worn campaign shirts and hats to the polling place, but it’s up to the individual poll workers to notice and to enforce these rules," he added.
If you unknowingly break the dress code rules, you could be asked to cover it up, take it off, or leave. But Hood and Webb feel this should not discourage you from casting your ballot.
“I feel like everybody should get out and vote," said Hood.
Webb added, “Go out and vote and really pay attention to what’s going on in the world and try to make your voice count.”
The dress code also applies to face masks. Though we are an open carry state, gun owners aren't allowed to open carry at polling locations because Dr. Koehler says it can be seen as voter intimidation.
Cellphones must also be turned off once you are inside the voting location. Phones can only be used for translation purposes if there is not a poll worker present who speaks your language language.
