Voters in Lincoln County are reminded to keep the integrity of the election system in mind when going to the polls next week.
While ballot “selfies” or taking photographs of a marked ballot are legal, voters may not share or distribute the image through social media or by any other means while inside the election enclosure. Voters must wait until they leave their polling place before posting or sharing the picture with anyone. Improper use of the photo could result in a violation of the law. Voters may not use the image to coerce, influence or intimidate another voter.
Voters should be aware that violating the law has consequences, said Lincoln County Election Board Secretary Dena Jo Bromley.
“While some offenses may seem minor, unlawful activity on Election Day constitutes a serious crime and could result in a misdemeanor or, in some cases, a felony conviction. We want all voters to be aware of their actions and be respectful of the rights of others,” she said.
Bromley said it is illegal to disclose how you voted with anyone while inside the election enclosure. In addition, you may not remove a ballot from the polling place.
Keep in mind that electioneering is prohibited within 300 feet of the entrance to a polling place or in-person absentee voting site, or a person who is standing in line to vote outside the polling place or in-person absentee voting site while an election is in progress. This includes wearing or bringing visible campaign-related paraphernalia into the election enclosure.
Bromley notes that no one except election officials, voters registered and voting at the polling place or in-person absentee voting site, a minor child or dependent accompanying such voters, shall be allowed to remain inside the election enclosure or within 50 feet of the entrance to a polling place or in-person absentee voting site while an election is in progress. Certain exceptions are made for the press, media and those assisting disabled voters.
Voters are reminded that consuming alcohol of any kind or quantity within one-half mile of a polling place on Election Day is also prohibited.
Voters who believe an election law has been violated should contact the County Election Board and/or local law enforcement immediately, while the alleged violation is in progress.
Voters can contact the Lincoln County Election Board at 405-258-1349. The County Election Board is located at 811 Manvel, Ste 15, Chandler, OK. The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Aug. 25.