Voter Reg Table Question-can it be partisan?

[liveoaktx]

I asked this in Texas but only one reply that doesn't get to the meat of what I'm wondering. I am going to set up a table, probably this weekend and want to know what can be on it, and whether it crosses any partisan lines to put info about the Dem party on it. For example, I want to put Bush versus Cheney info out, list of local and state Dems running, Kerry/Edwards bumper stickers, etc, as well as a sign that says Voter Registration. I'm not clear on what can be put on the table without possibly crossing a line. I would assume one does not actively solicit for the Dems but should be okay to engage in conversation if asked and have literature for conversation. Yes?

[Qutzupalotl]

1. I've seen registration tables that say

"Republicans--Register Here!"

but you can still fill out the form as a Democrat.

If you want some provocative literature, check out my sig line.

[blondeatlast]

2. Of course you can be partisan--as the poster above says, you just

can't refuse to register anyone who registers for another party, or coerce anyone to register for yours.

That doesn't mean you can't discuss it or hand out literature, either.

If you make it clear you are a Democrat, Green, or representing a political organization, that's okay too. Chances are, you will get very few people who want to register and don't share at least some of your views.

I think this is pretty universal, but you may want to call the Dem HQ or county elections board in your area to be certain.

[Heath.Hunnicutt]

3. Don't do it on permitted event grounds of PACs/527s

One thing to keep in mind is that there are laws against fund-raising political organizations using those funds with voter registration drives. When I had a table at a certain event, I was across the sidewalk from the property for which that organization had a permit.

[MAlibdem]

4. how does ACT figure into that?

They are big voter registers but aren't they a 527 too?

[Heath.Hunnicutt]

7. Honestly, you should ask someone who really knows

I am only repeating what I was told when I was registering people to vote at the event of another organization. Perhaps they were misinformed or I am mis-attributing the reason. I would merely suggest asking a lawyer or at least an official of the organization holding the event -- and not just the local organizer, but someone with some business background and the habit of avoiding legal exposure.

[amjsjc]

5. You can in FL...

Apparently in Florida the GOP has taken to putting up voter reg booths outside of INS centers when they swear immigrants in as US citizens. All of the registration forms present however are pre-marked GOP. Apparently legal, at least in FL. I'd contact some local party office and ask what TX rules are though. Good luck.

[blondeatlast]

6. I was a registrar a LONG while ago, but this bears checking.

I don't think the ballots can be pre-marked at all. Since it's Florida, I would call the local Dem HQ and see what they have to say about it. I wouldn't trust the elections officials there!

I would file that "premark" practice under slimy as hell...