Election Laws

There has been quite a bit of talk this campaign season about a rigged system and voter fraud. One aspect of the charge is that there are people going to polling places that they shouldn’t, perhaps voting more than once, or that people who are voting are not eligible to vote. In Minnesota a registered voter can challenge another voter’s eligibility. The law is clear though that the charge must be made upon personal knowledge, in writing, and not simply on suspicion. Someone challenging other voters cannot disrupt the voting process, take pictures, or be within six feet of the ballot counting machine. Most importantly they cannot speak directly to the challenged voter.


When you go to your polling place there are some important rules to follow. Only voters, their minor children, poll workers, and assistants are allowed inside. You also cannot gather or linger inside the polling place or within 100 feet of the building. You cannot campaign inside the polling place or within 100 feet of the building. Campaigning is also defined as wearing political clothing, buttons, stickers, or literature. You will be asked to remove the item, cover it up, or leave. Minnesota Statute 211B.11 covers soliciting in or near polling places. Violating this law can result in a petty misdemeanor charge and a fine up to $300.


Also, please help me in thanking Christian Hanson for his help at Bachelani Law Office these past few months.