Why you can’t wear a MAGA hat to the polls in NJ, Delaware

Keep your Make America Great Again hat at home when heading for the polls in Delaware and New Jersey this election.

Both New Jersey and Delaware have laws prohibiting the display, wearing or distribution of campaign merchandise near or in polling places on Election Day.

Can I wear a Harris-Walz camo hat to the polls in Delaware?

Delaware state law prohibits the wearing of “any button, banner or other object referring to issues, candidates or partisan topics” to voting booths. It is considered “electioneering,” which is campaigning during an election, while conducting the voting process.

Most states have laws regarding electioneering at polling places. The law in Delaware also prohibits the distribution of literature or art regarding an issue, partisan topic or individual candidate within 50 feet of a polling place.

Anyone who violates these are subject to a maximum $200 fine and a maximum of 90 days in prison.

Can I wear my MAGA hat to the polls in New Jersey?

You can be guilty of a disorderly persons offense if you display, sell, give or provide buttons, badges or other political insignia within 100 feet of a polling place in New Jersey.

It is illegal to sway voters within 100 feet of a polling place in any way in the state, carrying the same disorderly persons offense.

Shane Brennan is a Delaware-based journalist.