US Presidential Election: Can You Wear a Trump/Harris Hat or Shirt to Vote? US states have different clothing restrictions

MAGA golden hat (Photo: Reuters)

As millions of Americans participate in early voting, reports of campaign incidents are emerging, raising concerns about the integrity of the election process. While most voters cast their ballots without incident, some clashes at polling stations escalated over clothing.
In Bexar County, Texas, Sheriff Javier Salazar reported several cases of voters wearing “inappropriate clothing” supporting political candidates. “It’s campaigning, and it’s certainly not something you should do,” Salazar said during a recent press briefing.
Tensions flared in one incident in San Antonio, when a man wearing a red “MAGA” cap allegedly punched a 69-year-old precinct worker after he was asked to remove his hat.
Sheriff Salazar said, “I can’t imagine anything like this happening in my time here as sheriff,” underscoring the unusual nature of such violence at the polls.
A similar confrontation occurred in Orangeburg County, South Carolinawhere a voter got into an argument with a precinct worker over a “Let’s Go Brandon” hat. Video footage captured the conversation, with the voter saying, “That’s my (expletive) right,” before things escalated to the point where a poll worker allegedly punched him in the face. Although the precinct employee was not arrested, he received a summons for the altercation.
The incidents draw attention to laws that restrict political activity at or near polling stations to prevent canvassing — activities aimed at influencing voters.
The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) advises voters to check their local regulations, as the application of electioneering laws may vary by state. According to ABC News, many states, including Massachusetts and Wisconsinhave strict rules prohibiting certain political clothing near polling places.
The Ohio State University professor of law Steven Huefner explains that campaign laws have a long history, stemming from efforts to combat voter intimidation and undue influence at the polls.
While some voters see restrictions on campaigning as a violation of their First Amendment rights, experts stress the importance of maintaining a secure election process.
Campaign laws have faced legal challenges in various states, and some cases have succeeded US Supreme Court. Specifically, the 2018 decision found that Minnesota’s law banning political apparel was overbroad and violated free speech rights.
In contrast, Texas upheld its rules in the case where a voter was forced to turn a political T-shirt inside out. Huefner noted that the application of campaign restrictions can be inconsistent, leading to voter confusion.
In light of recent violent incidents, Sheriff Salazar called for less hostility surrounding the election process. “Look, there’s nothing here worth suffering or going to jail for,” he said.
Both incidents in Texas and South Carolina are under investigation, and local election officials are ensuring safe and fair elections.