A Pennsylvania judge has ordered Democrat-aligned poll watchers in Allegheny County to remove their “Voter Protection” badges following complaints of potential voter intimidation.
The decision, made by Common Pleas Judge John T. McVay on Tuesday afternoon, has already stirred significant controversy, with Republicans claiming the badges are misleading voters into thinking these poll watchers are official county employees.
The badges, which read “VOTER PROTECTION” and feature a hotline number, have the words “PA DEMS” subtly printed in smaller letters at the top. Russell Giancola, an attorney for the Republican Party, argued in Allegheny County Election Court that these badges give voters the impression that poll watchers represent a neutral, official government function rather than the Democrat Party.
“They’re creating the impression these poll watchers are, in fact, county employees,” Giancola argued. “They are poll watchers on behalf of the Democratic party.”
Democrats, however, countered that the badges have been worn in past elections without issue.
John Gotaskie, representing the Democrats, argued that no voters had filed complaints about confusion. “There’s no confusion here,” he said. “The entire argument is hearsay.”
Nevertheless, Judge McVay decided that, in the interest of transparency and fairness, the badges should be prohibited, citing Pennsylvania Department of State guidance.
According to state guidelines, poll watchers may not engage in electioneering inside polling places, which includes wearing apparel or accessories that might imply political affiliation or support.
Kush Desai, communications lead for Team Trump Pennsylvania & Battleground States, confirmed the ruling.
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