Voter Intimidation: What Are My Rights at the Polls?

You have the right to vote free of threats or pressure. Voter intimidation is not just wrong — it is a federal crime, and knowing the rules helps you hold your ground at the polls.

What the Law Says

Multiple federal laws ban voter intimidation. It is a crime to intimidate, threaten, or coerce a person — or try to — to interfere with their right to vote (18 U.S.C. § 594), or to do so for registering or voting, or for helping someone else vote (52 U.S.C. § 20511).

Courts have found these acts can count as unlawful intimidation:

• Physical threats or displaying weapons in a threatening way near polling places.
• Blocking the entrance to a polling location.
• Aggressively questioning voters about their citizenship, record, or qualifications to interfere with their vote.
• Following, filming, or surveilling voters to intimidate them.

Discriminatory challenges based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, or language group are also illegal.

An Everyday Example

Someone at your polling place challenges your eligibility. In most states you do not simply lose your vote — you can sign a sworn statement that you meet the qualifications and cast a regular ballot, and at a minimum you can always cast a provisional one. Most states also limit who is even allowed to challenge another voter.

A Note on “Electioneering” Distance

Every state sets a no-campaigning zone around polling places — commonly about 100 feet from the entrance, though it varies by state. Campaign activity inside that zone is not allowed, which is part of how the law keeps the area around voting calm.

What This Means for You

You have the right to vote without being threatened or harassed. If your eligibility is challenged, you can swear to it and still vote. If you experience or witness intimidation, report it to the U.S. Department of Justice (800-253-3931) or the nonpartisan Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE.