(Krispy Kreme/AP)
Vote and get free coffee, donuts and a felony???
By Jimmy Orr | 11.04.08
If having your say in who will be the 44th President of the United States isn’t incentive enough to get out and vote, then how about free Starbucks coffee, Krispy Kreme doughnuts, or Ben and Jerry’s ice cream?
These companies and many more across the nation are offering freebies just for being patriotic.
Free stuff
Not in the Joe Biden “be a patriot” way. But, at Starbucks, just for saying you voted. For Krispy Kreme — all you have to do is wear an “I voted” sticker.
It’s even simpler at Ben and Jerry’s. The two step process is: 1) Show up. 2) Have a pulse.
It makes you want to break out and sing Glen Campbell’s “Rhinestone Cowboy” - doesn’t it?
Felony?
Well, not so fast. Seems there are legal restrictions afoot.
Take the State of Georgia where the motto is “Wisdom, Justice and Moderation.”
Requiring someone to say they voted in order to receive a free coffee - that’s a felony.
Here’s the Georgia state law:
“Any person who gives or receives, or offers to give or receive, or participates in the giving or receiving of money or gifts for the purpose of registering as a voter, voting, or voting for a particular candidate in any primary or election shall be guilty of a felony.”
Get out of jail free card
No word if an individual would get the electric chair upon conviction. But thankfully Starbucks and Krispy Kreme have modified the promotion so you aren’t required to break the law in order to get free stuff.
“To ensure we are in compliance with election law, we are extending our offer to all customers who request a tall brewed coffee,” said Starbucks’ spokeswoman Tara Darrow.
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2. Gloria Poole | 11.04.08
Buying or enticing votes should be illegal.And as far as I know is illegal in most states. Enough said.
/s/ gloria poole, RN and artist, Denver CO 80203
3. Thom | 11.04.08
At first I was confused about the video at the end, until I realized that we are witnessing the birth of a new meme.
We’ve been Glenrolled!
5. overdue | 11.04.08
I voted, and all I got was a schmaltzy Glenn Campbell video. Oh, but it was SOOOO worth it! 
6. frankie oviatt | 11.04.08
In all my years of voting (and there have been many), I don’t think I have ever
heard of anything so ridiculous. I hope the homeless get their share of coffee,
donuts and whatever, since they are the only ones who really need it, and it’s
probably all they’ll get out of this election anyway.
7. R. A. Williamson | 11.04.08
Offering a free doughnut or coffee to voters should not be illegal — anywhere. Voting should be encouraged in every way we can.
8. boutime08 | 11.04.08
Another idiotic law that wastes tax payer money. How does that work for candidates who say if you vote for me I will do “X” for you? - Interesting paradox.
9. adirondacker1 | 11.04.08
Of course it would be Georgia with the felony law about coffee. But of course years ago Georgia applauded the guy with the pitchfork for “the other folks” (Chambliss). No felony for him
Adirondacker1
11. Paul T | 11.04.08
This is classical idiots throwing out common sense again. The point of these companies was to encourage people to vote. Not buy a vote for a particular candidate.
So much for free America.
Let me see, this is a felony and we hold 20% of the worlds prisoners yet we only have 4% of the world’s population. Freedom of speech is dead. Freedom in America is dead.
Time to not vote and move to another country and start over.
12. hyperthetical | 11.04.08
Gloria - Enticing people to vote is not illegal. Enticing them to vote a particular way is illegal in all states.
13. Blake | 11.04.08
I think it’s interesting that you lump Ben & Jerry’s in with all of this when they actually stated in their advertising that you don’t have to prove that you voted in order to get the free cone. Get your facts straight.
14. Stephen | 11.04.08
So, by that logic shouldn’t it be illegal to give employees paid time off to vote, too?
15. michael | 11.04.08
Ya, I really don’t get the video either. Maybe its a social commentary thats just way over our heads. But seriously, that cowboy is SUCH a maveric!
16. Pam | 11.04.08
Yeah! What you said Dan.
When I talk to people overseas they say the same thing (and they cannot even CONCEIVE that we would elect McCain/Palin).
Why is Glen Campbell here?
17. Jim Teacher | 11.04.08
The most important change we could make is the change never talked about - compulsory registration. The government should encourage citizenship, just as in Australia, much of Europe and parts of Asia. We are supposed to be so “pro-democratic” - why not actually be proactive?
18. Mark Stickle | 11.04.08
This, while innocent enough, this could potentially set a dangerous precedent for the United States that parties in third world and even developed countries employ to encourage a sway in voting. We should make absolutely sure that nobody engages in such activity here in the USA, though we should make it clear to everyone why we cannot allow this kind of activity - in a fun “marketing” way.
19. Abby | 11.04.08
I heard that McCain paid Starbucks to give extra coffee to people who voted for him. I think he’s scared…
20. robert | 11.04.08
I spent an hour and a half in line this morning to vote because there were a disproportional number of people with last names m-r. The a-c, d-f, g-n lines were empty. Why dont they stop worrying about whether or not Starbucks is giving away a free coffee for voting and start fixing these problems. Virginia is a complete mess and having early voting could have helped. Before they start prosecuting Starbucks employees they should fix their own problems.
22. colby | 11.04.08
I am guessing the Video is referrencing the lyrics, which reflect the atmosphere of the election.
Where hustle’s the name of the game
And nice guys get washed away like the snow and the rain
There’s been a load of compromisin’
On the road to my horizon
But I’m gonna be where the lights are shinin’ on me
Like a rhinestone cowboy
Riding out on a horse in a star-spangled rodeo
Rhinestone cowboy
Gettin’ cards and letters from people I don’t even know
And offers comin’ over the phone
24. bahn mcbama | 11.04.08
do we really want people who are only enticed with free coffee and donuts making a vote on how our nation should be run?
25. Eric | 11.04.08
If we can pay our taxes online, we should be able to vote from the comfort of our living room online, and those that do not have computers could go to a library or poll station. If its secure enough for our banking and taxes, it should be secure enough for our voting. We would have accountability, the ability to see how your vote was cast, no lines, instant results, and it would end a lot of voter fraud by Diebold, volunteers at polls, and GOP suppression lawyers.
26. Brendan Murphy | 11.04.08
I thought it was a great marketing idea by Starbucks. The idea is not to give away free coffee to people, the idea is to get people to walk in the door and buy a $2 danish or something. Perhaps some homeless people will get some free coffee and donuts. Great.
The law in GA needs to be changed to regulate bribes and coersion and voter fraud not free coffee for people who vote.
27. Jeremy | 11.04.08
Actually, I think it has become a little too easy to vote. All you need is a stamp actually. No education required, and information gathered from carefully positioned television and media advertisement. today we get to see trully whose television campaign recieved the highest Nielson ratings: Is it SnL, 30 Rock, Lipstick Jungle, the Sipsons, Obama, Mcain, and some Starbucks Coffee and Doughnuts while we watch the show.
29. Jason | 11.04.08
I think voting should be encouraged. If it takes a free donut to get fat lazy american’s off their recliners and do something productive then so be it. It’s no different than the candidates offering empty promises if you vote for them. At least in this case people will actually get what was promised.
30. edge | 11.04.08
Dan, personally I am not opposed to making voting harder!
I would like to see NO party affiliations on the Ballots!
I would like the Ballot to be like the game of Concentration. Random names and random Offices!
You pick the name and the office, if they don’t match then your vote does not count. Too many people go in and vote a Party without knowing anything about the people.
IMO, if you can’t match the Candidate with the Office without cue cards then your vote should not count.
edge.
31. Santa Fean | 11.04.08
Why aren’t more people voting for the 72 year old and his running mate who thinks man walked the earth with dinosaurs? GOODBYE TO THE WORST PRESIDENT EVER and hello to PRESIDENT OBAMA!
32. Cory O’Brien | 11.04.08
This is ridiculous! The only thing America loves more than voting is free stuff!
http://thefutureofads.com/2008/11/04/america-loves-free-stuff/
33. Kenny | 11.04.08
I’d like to see someone actually get prosecuted for getting a free coffee for voting. I would probably fall out of my chair and die laughing.
34. Smarter than you | 11.04.08
Voting should NOT be encouraged. I don’t want the apathetic, the lazy, and the I-don’t-care crowd deciding the future of my country. The idiot that was just going to stay home and watch TV until learning that a free donut was available is hardly the kind of person that can objectively evaluate anything. I say make voting more difficult. Force voters to demonstrate that they have some fundamental knowledge of what they are voting on. Being able to color in a circle, pull a lever, or punch out a chad hardly prove one’s civic virtues.
35. Janie | 11.04.08
Since when is an act of being hospitable by having coffee, donuts, and/or ice cream available to the general public a felony? How unreservedly ridiculous.
36. Rob | 11.04.08
Why is always liberals who think it is fine to pay people to vote. Images of Dems handing out cigarettes to bums in Chicago come to mind.
37. Inverse137 | 11.04.08
11. Paul T | 11.04.08
The point of these companies was to encourage people to vote. Not buy a vote for a particular candidate.
So much for free America.
Let me see, this is a felony and we hold 20% of the worlds prisoners yet we only have 4% of the world’s population. Freedom of speech is dead. Freedom in America is dead.
Time to not vote and move to another country and start over.
————————————–
PaulT, true, OR, you could do something. Nah, much easier to hide anonymously and whine.
Happy Day! Today is the end of the neo-cons!! Go find an ultra-conservative and laugh in their face today!
38. Bob Snow | 11.04.08
Australia and other compulsory voting democracies also has problems with what they call “donkey votes” which occur when voters just randomly select candidates to either get out of the polls quickly or as an apathy protest since they feel obligaed to wait in line, vote, etc.
I like the idea of an informed electorate and strongly support every non-felon U.S. citizen’s right to vote but would not want to see it made obligatory either.
As far as the chains offering free coffee, etc, the road to folly is often paved with good intentions. As someone else noted, at least the homeless, less fortunate, etc, will get also something out of the deal.
41. Victor Caballero | 11.04.08
I voted. About 30 min wait in Pasadena, CA. Are these companies with giveaways just exploiting us?
42. Hallie | 11.04.08
Re. voting lines. Since 1998 Oregon has had an all mail-in election process. It Works! We MUST look at this on a national level as an all-inclusive way to promote voting. (I don’t live in Oregon but my family in OR makes it a ritual to proudly review the ballot and vote at home.) americavotesbymail2012@gmail.com to get involved.
hallie
43. Tracy | 11.04.08
It was great to see the old Rhinestone Cowboy video.
Nice guys get washed away…
There’ll be a load of compromsing on the road to my horizon,
but I’m gonna be where the lights are shining on me.
To be at the top where you’re so famous that you’re “getting cards and letters from people I don’t even know” you’ve got to compromise your values.
Seems to fit the current way to get to the top of the political heap really well doesn’t it?
44. Jack | 11.04.08
Actually … if you can’t sell it, you don’t own it, and that means it isn’t really yours. If it’s yours to give away for whatever reason you choose, then perhaps it should be yours to exchange for goods and services as well.
Now the government could, in this theoretical magic land where you own your vote, regulate the minimum price one is allowed to charge for such a transaction or tax it to the point that it is more economical to campaign for them to be given freely.
Yes it would be more convoluted, but it would be more consistant.
45. LandofTheWhiners | 11.04.08
“Buying or enticing votes should be illegal” - Gimme a break. I think it is awesome that these companies are giving away some of their profits to encourage people to do what they should be doing.
IF the companies were saying, “We will give you a freebie if you vote for a certain candidate.” Then that is a problem.
Why do so many feel the need to complain, find fault, with a generous act?
Based on a true story: Joe sees that voter turnout is higher than normal and people are waiting in long lines. The weather is warm, so he decides to purchase and hand out water to people in line. Joe is told by some people that they don’t like that brand of water or that it is not cold enough. Others complain that soda would be tastier, while others that juice would be healthier and a better choice.
Several people, though thirsty, refuse the water because they shouldn’t be rewarded for doing something that is their civic duty. Another person gets out of line and starts yelling a Joe for not giving the water to homeless people, because they are the ones who need it. The yelling disturbs several people who call the police. Joe is booked for disturbing the peace and booked on felony voting tampering.
According to the comments I see here, Joe should spend the rest of his life in jail.
46. Texlaw | 11.04.08
hmm. Seems to me that i remember from an american history class that some early voters got in trouble for offering a glass of whiskey to voters…of course, you were expected to vote correctly for your drink…
and i must say that i wonder just how it is going to help the nation to encourage EVERYONE to vote. It seems to be assumed that this is a good thing. I’m not so sure.
47. androticus | 11.04.08
To the person who suggested “compulsory registration”.
Don’t you think that a “free country” in which one is compelled to vote (or even register) is a contradiction in terms? If the country is being run in a responsible manner by those who choose to participate then it doesn’t matter how many don’t participate. Conversely, if the country is being monopolized by a statist duopoly who don’t offer any real choice, then shouldn’t people have the right to NOT participate in protest? Saddam and the Soviets both used to boast about their near-100% voter turnouts — yeah, right! “turn out” or get “shipped out” to the concentration camp!
48. Zach.Walters | 11.04.08
The voting process, like any action worth doing, requires some discrepancy. America poses questions about the efficiency and expediency of everyday living because America loves accessibility and ease. Voting on November 4th is the Christmas for political activists. If this be true, then why don’t we actively pursue politics every day similar to a child that behaves and tries to stay off of Santa’s “naughty list?” I understand the difficulty to vote in larger districts, but have patience. The boss may decry the fact that employees are not at work for a few hours and the employee may loose a few dollars driving to the polls, but we reserve our right to vote by these sacrifices.
49. Steve Young | 11.04.08
As long as there is no attempt to influence the way someone votes (free coffee after-the-fact is hardly going to influence anyone), then why not use all means at our disposal to encourage citizens [emphasis added] to do their patriotic duty, and go and vote.
50. InTheKnow | 11.04.08
They need to put a stop to this right quick! Throw those advertisers in jail and close their businesses.
51. Deregulate social issues | 11.04.08
Does anyone find it hypocritical, yet funny at the same time, that our government and some Americans work so hard to REGUALTE how we live our lives, but want to DEREGULATE what really affects the foundation of our country like finacial institutions, corporate finance, security…..I would like to see government going back to managing the business and security of this country, and stay out of my home, off my body, and away from my personal choices. We are not in this mess because of social issues, but corrupt politicians, greedy CEOs and shareholders, and lazy non-voting Americans. VOTE, regardless of whether you get a cup of joe or not. It is a privilege not all this world have! VOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOTTTTTTE!
52. lemming | 11.04.08
Ha! Free cofee and donuts! They’re even givin out tacos around here! I wasunt gonna vote… so I picked on the last bumper sticker I saw…. and shizzam! Free lunch! Democrecy is the best ever!
53. Mulvaney | 11.04.08
Coffee and donuts may help people get through long lines. But whatever it takes, vote.
54. Chris | 11.04.08
This is just I’m sorry but… Stupid. Might as well censur all advertising for voting. since money is being invested and offered to motivate people to vote. Nice one Georgia. Genius.
I love how Starbucks and KK modified the promo, they just said, “eh… ok? Well free donuts and coffee for all anyways, just not “Related anything with Elections”"
OMG Ridiculous!!!!
This country won’t go anywhere with this kind of mentality!
55. Barney | 11.04.08
Of course this should be illegal. After all it’s a waste of perfectly good resources encouraging people to vote. If these companies want to spend their money in a legal and much more effective manner they shouldn’t be wasting on the voters but spending on the candidates themselves. You know, the legal way, through large campaign contributions, lobbyists, purchasing adds, and other “special favors”. If you spend money on the voter he/she might not vote for your candidate. But spending it on the candidate is just good business practice, and in these tight economic times can we really afford to waste money. You don’t really think wall street bankers and real estate weasels got $700 billion by spending money on the voters do you?
57. frankie oviatt | 11.04.08
We don’t need more voting encouragement. What we need is a new voting system:
No more electoral votes. Only popular. It’s that way in most countries. But
in ours, we have to be different. To the detriment of the will of the people.
58. Not actually relevant | 11.04.08
I voted Obama, but that doesn’t mean I expect much.
POTUS is a hard job. Most of ‘em just spend time cutting their losses. If they do a good job cutting their losses, we say they were a good president. If they don’t (e.g., “W”), we say they weren’t.
I think Obama looks more like a president than McCain.
And it’s time we had a minority president.
And if he actually produces positive change, that’s just sprinkles on the cone.
59. Ephialtes | 11.04.08
We need greater, not lesser, obstacles to voting. The biggest problem facing us today is actually a surfeit of democracy. It is essential that electors have some stake in the State and the community, and at least some understanding of the institutions and their history. Predictions of the demise of our freedoms once the politicians learned they could buy power with the money of the people very much seem to be in process of realization.
A few needed reforms:
1) Re-instate appointment of Senators by State legislatures rather than direct vote.
2) Require some, at least nominal, property (or income) qualifications for voting.
3) Grant multiple voting privileges to combat veterans.
4) Elimination of popular ‘Initiatives’.
61. Bob Dill | 11.04.08
It is a far bigger crime when folks in England and abroad are emailing American citizens in key towns and states asking them to vote for specific candidates… than it is for a donut or coffee company to offer general-interest promotional swag on election day.
62. Mark | 11.04.08
We should regulate the donuts. They can give out 1, non-sprinkled, plain donut but no bear claws or other exotic pastries. Coffee must be black with no condiments in them. We will join me in a billion dollar lawsuit. I think America’s new slogan should be God Help America!!!
63. Scott | 11.04.08
All the people who don’t work, and or on welfare would like that free coffee and doughnut. Maybe that is Obama’s way of helping them like he said he was.
64. Fred Freid | 11.04.08
OKAY Comrade Santa Fean but I don’t want your socialist candidate and neither do most the people I work with. I walked the street with my kids at Halloween and people gathered around in the street and in the driveways and listened to my neighbors talk with disgust about Obama and his “spread the wealth” and his “tax the rich” and his ” a baby is a burden” the guy is a real piece of work.
As for offering coffee or donuts or a pint of mad dog 20/20– if you can’t put forward the effort to vote without some offering you are a socialist and Obama will get your vote. If you are like me and don’t want a stupid commercial enterprise offering bribes like this you understand why we need a law. We need a law to keep as many turkeys as we can away from the polls. Because really, not everyone is capable of voting and it is great when it takes some effort and no one needs to be bribed–it raises the bar.
66. Dennis | 11.04.08
Vote by mail. It works. It increases turnout. Vote at your convenience.
It saves money. It discourages last-minute shenanigans, as many vote
before the deadline. It uses a paper, re-countable ballot.
While you’re at it switch to instant-runoff voting, but that’s a whole
other topic.
67. Bob | 11.04.08
Lets see now… Candidates have been promising us better tax credits, lower taxes, better health care and the list goes on. This is not buying votes???
This has been this way for the past 60 years of my life and not one candidate has ever really done anything about it. Its the same promises every time. This is why people know politicians lie. Watch, no positive changes will happen. In four more years the same arguments will appear again.
68. Jan | 11.04.08
I live in Alabama and teach American National Government at the local university. My students wanted me to give them extra credit for voting, but I told them that I couldn’t. I was afraid I might get in trouble for it. Apparently, there was good reason to fear.
I did, however, make them choose a candidate and write an argument paper, using actual facts to back up their arguments, about why their chosen candidate would make a good president and if they could actually follow through on their campaign promises.
69. Katharine | 11.04.08
It is illegal to give incentive to vote. But is it illegal to give something for having voted? I think there is a subtle difference here….
70. Bob | 11.04.08
Eric ways if we can trust computers with our bank accounts, then we can trust them with voting: but the problem is entirely different–bank accounts are transparent to the holder (you), and it’s your responsibility to monitor whether or not the correct transactions have been posted. The banks are unlikely to mess with things that can be discovered easily (like incorrect balances), because once someone discovers it, it won’t be that hard for lots of people to confirm the inconsistencies. As long as voting is by secret ballot (and there are very good reasons for this to be the case), then there is no simple way to verify whether or not your or vote, or any particular vote, has been counted accurately. There are many, many opportunities to modify voting tallies, and no simple way to verify the results. There are just as many possible ways to overcome this, but all of them are fraught with difficulties. There are other democracies, such as Canada, where paper ballots are still used predominately, and where citizen observers oversee all the counting of all the ballots. My guess is that this would be the cheapest way, in the long run, to resolve these issues: go back to simple procedures for which citizen oversight is still possible.
71. Chris | 11.04.08
Both my wife and I voted today. No long lines but we did go between before work voters and lunch time voters. Poll worker said that the said the longest wait so far had been about 45 Minutes.
As far as giving out coffee or donuts if you voted? Not for it at all. People should vote because they want to vote. Let the apathetic and uninformed stay home or at the least, away from the polls.
Yes, it is SO hard to vote in this country what with the small arms fire and suicide bombers and the armed guards and…. oh wait, we don’t have that do we? We just have other citizens giving up their time for low pay so we all can help run our country. Thank You Poll Workers for your sacrifice.
Happy to show my ID and happy that I have the right to vote. I don’t need donuts or coffee to get me out of my house.
72. AtheistAndProud | 11.04.08
I’m not sure whether that should be illegal. They are not saying anything like “vote McCain and get a cookie”. It is helping to ensure that more of the US population votes, thus ensuring the election better represents what the people want.
73. joedeplumber | 11.04.08
I say there should be a voter tax for those that make $250,000 per year and those that make under $250,000 per year receive the free stuff. Did I say $250,000 I intended to say $200,000… or is it $150,000? Heck let’s just make it $42,000.
74. james | 11.04.08
Legally starbucks is fine. Most of the inept people here mis-read:
“Starbucks offers free coffee for voting!”
Re-read it.
It says
“Starbucks offers coffee to those who have voted.”
They are not trying to get you to vote, they are giving you coffee if you already have voted.
Simply legal.
Education in America is dismal. Most of you can blame it on a lack of attention of more than a sentence or two.
Ha ha!
75. Amanda | 11.04.08
They should have mobile Ben & Jerry’s, Starbucks, and Krispy Kremes at all the voting sites. Eating makes the line go faster!
76. Canuck | 11.04.08
After watching many US elections and their various problems, I keep wondering why the US doesn’t take a closer look at how Canada’s federal elections are run. They are staffed by paid non-partisan employees, the locations are established well in advance, they do not often change, scrutineers are available from all major parties, you do not need to be registered in advance, you can show proof of residence when you show up, there are never any lines, and the paper balloting system is simple to use and quick.
77. Geoff | 11.04.08
“Buying or enticing votes should be illegal.And as far as I know is illegal in most states. Enough said.”
In response to this gem of a comment by Gloria Poole, I don’t know why you think it is a bad thing to encourage people to vote. I think that no matter what your political beliefs, it is in the best interest of the country that everyone make their voice heard in elections. People are always making excuses for not voting, and while some of them may be valid, I’m for whatever will get the most people to the polls. I agree it is somewhat sad that people need to be enticed by freebies to vote, but if it works, I’m all for it.
78. Chip Morris | 11.04.08
Please note the missed concept here “for a particular candidate in any primary or election shall be guilty of a felony”. Unless Sen. McCain is the Rhinestone cowboy I can’t see the linkage. Unless Ben and Jerry asks for a vote for a candidate then there is no issue here.
Come on people. I want them to offer a New York strip medium rare for voting. That’s what I’m talking about!!!!
79. doug | 11.04.08
I think it’s a well-intentioned law, it just ends up looking ridiculous in this situation. Forbidding giving out gifts for voting does make some sense, because it would be possible for a group to tailor the gift they give out to be one that appeals to a demographic that leans towards a specific candidate or party.
80. Dan | 11.04.08
Let me get this straight. It is illegal for a company to give you a cup of coffee if you can prove that you voted but it is OK for the government to give you welfare just for being born? At least the first requires you do SOMETHING to receive a benefit!
81. shan | 11.04.08
We were appalled with the pre-election tactics. After answering the phone several times on Saturday, we were even more upset when it kept ringing on Sunday. The calls were all from solicitors for the Obama campaign. They were actually asking for our 18 year old daughter by name. As a newly registered first time voter, they said that they were educating young voter’s on the issues. After a lot of these calls filled with annoying Obama cliches, we became pretty angry and started hanging up, but it didn’t end there. Late Sunday afternoon they started showing up at our door with offers to drive our 18 year old to the polls “just in case she needed a ride”. These people were total strangers and we found their tactics to be a complete invasion of our privacy.
83. Doug Jamal | 11.04.08
In reference to the comments by Dan, were there enough poll staffers to properly staff *all of the libraries*? In government, “properly trained and staffed” is an important theme and that theme can either save millions of dollars or cost them millions of dollars in lawsuits and emotional liberals would be the first to exploit it should they fall on the losing end of an election.
84. gregg | 11.04.08
afterall, in america it is easier to vote for someone on american idol than it is on our presidency. citizens are blasted for not voting but it sure isnt getting any easier so that more people could vote — just more challenging.
86. Stella | 11.04.08
Rhinestones are fake jewels that are popular on Country-style clothing, but real cowboys would never wear them. A “Rhinestone Cowboy” would be someone who wants to be a real cowboy, but isn’t. Kind of like people who buy off-road vehicles and drive them around the suburbs.
87. James Moore | 11.04.08
We have the easiest, most convenient was of voting anywhere in the world. For people who take about a half hour, ahead of time, and prepare, and with ALL the resources and information available, again, AHEAD of time, I still cant figure out why the constant whining goes on election after election. Get a clue people, I’m sick of the complaints.
88. Vern | 11.04.08
Very amusing report and comments. I haven’t seen Glenn Campbell look that young in far to long.
89. professor wizz | 11.04.08
Its NOT an idiotic law. In fact its a very smart law to have on the books, and Georgia ought to be congratulated for having such foresight. Requiring a citizen to participate in a process in order to receive a gift or favor is wrong. Not only that but doing so switches the process from voluntary to compulsory. It also excludes segments of society unable to vote, such as the mentally ill and children not of voting age. All manner of complications can arise when you begin ‘rewarding’ people to vote, its best to simply have a blanket policy in place prohibiting such things.
90. Eddie robertson | 11.04.08
Mr.E.Robertson 11.4.08
Coffee or Doughnuts matter little to me as I indulge in neither. What does
bother me is this; you would think there were no other parties to vote for.
I would like to see some method for the smaller parties to get some
recognition. Could it be possible that just maybe there are some other
qualified individuals in our realm.
Here in Northeastern Washington we vote by mail in ballot. No long lines
you know. It does require that the voter be registered in advance and that
does require at a little prior interest.
91. Hammer | 11.04.08
There should be no outside incentives given to register or vote. It is not only our right but our duty to vote.
This is a lot of press for a doughnut but there have been cases of Acorn’s given to incentivize registering. I get tired of this “voter suppression” too.
Yes some of us want to suppress the votes of dead people, non-citizens, those in a coma, and yes we would like for legal voters to vote only once.
Let’s change the Democrats chant of “Count every vote” to “Count every legal vote once”.
And please Democrats, stop trying to get military voters ballots disqualified.
92. Steve | 11.04.08
I think everyone should sit a test to see whether they are fit to vote, most Americans don’t even know the answers they expect immigrants to answer…
Incidentally, for all those who say make voting harder, you don’t want lazy people deciding your future, I agree I don’t want the apathetic voters for coffee, donuts & ice-cream at the polling stations either, but, let’s face it, if you didn’t have these voters, the students and apathetic, undriven, less educated voters, Obama or the Democrats would never win anything…!
Go McCain / Palin !!!!!!
93. Adam | 11.04.08
To 72:
It actually depends on when I heard about the Starbuck’s campaign and whether it influenced my decision to vote. If I didn’t know I would get free coffee before voting, then you are absolutely correct. But, if I wasn’t going to vote and then decided that free coffee was a good reason to, the Georgia law sounds like it would have been broken by both me and Starbucks.
But, we are forgetting something very important. A law is not sufficiently intepreted in isolation. The chances of anyone getting charged on this are miniscule. Well, what do I know . . . I’ve never even been to Georgia.
94. Derek | 11.04.08
12. hyperthetical | 11.04.08
Gloria - Enticing people to vote is not illegal. Enticing them to vote a particular way is illegal in all states.
Do you people not actually read the article you’re commenting on? or do you just skip to the comments?
The whole point of the article is that enticing people to vote is illegal.. whether its to vote a certain way or not. How do you come out and then say its not illegal? In fact, there have been several articles today across all the news agencies about this and they all say its illegal.
Second comment about people not reading articles… The article specifically mentions rhinestone cowboy. Hence the video at the end.
Why do you even bother coming on news sites if you’re not going to you know… read the news.
95. Mary | 11.04.08
Sorry that I misunderstood the motive. I thought the “freebe” was a thank you for being a good American by voting. I do not drink coffee but I plan to stop and buy a hot chocolate after I pick up my free donut. Ice cream later!
96. Steve Kite | 11.04.08
Mr. Teacher, there’s a HUGE difference between “supposed to be so ‘pro-democratic’” and “actually ARE pro-democratic.”
The entire election system in the US is based on maximizing the appearance of public input while minimizing the true LEVEL of it. The fact that almost every state has laws requiring official bodies to allow the public to attend meetings at which the public’s business is conducted, and that it’s major news when these laws are actually ENFORCED, is the first stage of the proof.
A truly informed and involved citizenry is the worst nightmare of almost any “government”* official, and they would be more than happy to be permanently relieved of the possibility. They will NEVER willingly do anything at all to encourageit.
*We do not actually have government; we have rulers.
97. Pooks | 11.04.08
Paul T sez:
“Time to not vote and move to another country and start over.”
Yawn. Let me know when you actually follow through with your big rhetoric.
99. Bill The Builder | 11.04.08
I agree with “Edge” and “Smarter than you”. Americans have become more lazy with time, with most of the poor and uneducated becoming “social lemmings” - following the crowd to whichever candidate promises another dollar in their pockets, instead getting off of their rear ends and thoroughly examining each candidate’s background, morals, and track record. While I do think that we should have much less government in our lives, the fact is that we are in desperate need of national voting guidelines- photo I.D., national standards, so one person can’t vote 40 times. Otherwise we are no better off than a socialist or communist country who “sways” their elections. Watch out for bigger government- power and socialism will creep in and slowly strip what freedoms we still have left in this country. Also- with an Obama presidency, racial tensions may well rise (as they already have with his associations), look out for the next civil war. Unfortunately it may be time to stash some guns, ammo, and silver to buy food with.
100. dsquared | 11.04.08
There you have it…the bureaucrats are in charge of voting and the system is not as efficient or effective as it could be, go figure. Stop whining, get in line and wait. You are fortunate to have this day.
101. B Alexander | 11.04.08
Those latte-sipping, Ben & Jerry’s types most likely will vote Democrat. Let’s get our Justice Department after those companies that encourage “these types” to go vote. I do not see how that could be a problem; our Justice Department is Republican now.
102. jd | 11.04.08
Why do retreads keep posting things like “why don’t they fix the worn tires on my car instead of worrying about stuff like this”? Really? That’s the logic you are applying?
103. Sam | 11.04.08
I quit voting 20 some years ago. Why bother, the electoral college does it all for us,
and I can drink my own coffee and stay home…No Lines.
104. I Voted Today | 11.04.08
I am neither “apathetic” nor “uninformed,” but I do think it’s a nice gesture to get a free coffee and doughnut. The ones complaining are mostly those sitting at home and not voting, bitter that they didn’t get a “freebie.”
105. Sunshine | 11.04.08
basically, what these companies are trying to say to AMERICA is:
justt voteee!
botttom line is many americans still need that boost of encouragement to go through with voting.
i guess coffee and donuts somehow make it less of a hasle?
etiher way… get your coffee and donuts or whatever, but please votee.
106. Gerald Spencer | 11.04.08
Thank you, CSM, for a nice little story. Good clean news, good clean fun. The giveaways won’t make a dime for these companies and it reminds us that all the people behind those counters, in those kitchens, making donuts or coffee or ice cream are people too, people who have feelings, all the same feelings all of us have at one point or another. Corporations are made up of people, bottom to top; people who vote, who care, people who serve in the Armed Forces and people who don’t, people who protest and people who approve.
Over all, what can I say? Sweet!
107. Derek | 11.04.08
I’m don’t really have an opinion either way on what these companies are doing or did. I personally think they’re doing a nice thing, but at the same time I understand the need to prevent the image of vote tampering.
What I’d like to say is the following:
If you don’t vote, you don’t have a right to complain about the government when they do something you don’t like. You had your chance, you chose to sit back and do nothing… deal with it and learn.
108. CantTalkNow | 11.04.08
Can’t talk now, hiding from the police. They are trying to arrest me for the “I Voted” sticker I received. Didn’t know about the law when I got this “gift…for voting” and committed a felony.
Apparently, all the people handing out the stickers have already been arrested.
109. mom h | 11.04.08
Did anyone actually see the Starbucks ad offering the coffee? It’s a GREAT ad. The coffee gift is a public acknowledgement that community involvement is worthy of notice & appreciation, rather than a bribe. In a world where people feel their personal contribution doesn’t mean much, I think it’s really nice gesture.
110. Chris Moreno | 11.04.08
Hallie (comment #40) is correct.
The other evening we hosted a voting get-together (we like to call it
“Democracy Conspiracy”) at our home. Our friends got together, discussed the
issues, measures, and candidates, then filled out our ballots according
to our own respective concerns and wishes. We then placed our ballots in the mail, thereby completing the voting process in Oregon. Would anyone think that we were trying to influence our friends’ votes by also cooking them a spaghetti dinner (w/ meatballs)? Granted, I’m a decent cook, but a felon? It is such a shame that in America somehow politics MUST be separated from even the most basic human connections we can easily share.
111. FromIraq | 11.04.08
Maybe Starbucks will reconsider and send some of that coffee to some Marine’s over here in Iraq. If not, that is okay, I guess we can just sleep on duty and let them overrun Seattle in the near future . . .
113. jobi | 11.04.08
OMG… another Asteroid just hit Pluto!! That had to be because of Obama…or wait.. was it McCain! Yes… I’m saying you’ve spent another worthless waste of time on useless trivial babble.
Who cares if a company gives you something because you said “I voted”. They don’t have a clue for what you voted. Irrational overreaction…yes that’s the best approach! If they say you can only get blah blah blah if you voted for XX. The don’t go there and file a discrimination lawsuit against them with the NAACP or ACLU, either way they get hosed.
C’mon folks, contradictions abound for a nation of nations run on the rule of someone’s interpretation of the law. One person only makes a difference if he/she is joined by another to share a common voice. When did this actually happen last??
114. Valerie | 11.04.08
Thank you all! Reading this article and all of your comments gave me one of the best laughs I’ve had in a long time. I think I have to agree with the person who said our new motto should be “God Help America!”
115. Kokomo Joe | 11.04.08
I would be ashamed to think of taking a gift of anykind for voting. I would feel like my vote was being bought even if it wasn’t. The media, adverstising and marketing has made too many people feel like they need to be given something to do anything, of course unless they are on welfare, etc. then they do not need to do anything. That is the problem with this country, no one understands the freedom they have, at least not right now. I think our kids and grandkids will all look back and understand what they missed as they deal with an economy that continues to struggle, a debt burden that they cannot pay and parents who need to live with them because their retirement accounts and social security was spent by the greedy politicians and investment banker aroudn the turn of the century.
116. egrab | 11.04.08
You guys should be thankful to these businesses offering free coffee, donuts, and ice cream. As long as they do not dictate anyone who to vote for, it is legal. These guys are just good samaritans. Don’t you ever imagine how terrible it is to stay in line for 5-6 hours outside a building just to vote? It is a choice not to vote anyway. If these businesses will write-off this give-aways as an expense for tax purposes, then that would be another story. You can tell what you eat is either from a republican or democrat.
117. brian f | 11.04.08
The most interesting observation that I made was that the cowboy was in a closed in yard with no eyes fixed on him. I wonder if the felony aspect was being emphasized subconsciously. By the way how many Starbucks or Krispy Kreme establishments would be very accessible to the homeless. Many people need to be encouraged to vote, but the motivation will probably still be an issue of concern to them if they actually respond.
118. Raymondo | 11.04.08
If you don’t understand the issues that you are voting for you have no business diluting the votes of the rest of us who actually took the time to understand the issues. The Democrats have lowered the bar for voter qualifications and it continues to “round up” people who have no business voting. My daughter is eligible to vote and she has said that she hasn’t registered because she doesn’t know what she i voting for and until she does take the time she doesn’t deserve to vote. I “brain wash” her into voting my way but that doesn’t teach her anything. She must make her own decisions and vote accordingly. Too bad more people don’t think the same way. The priviledge of voting has responsibilities, live up to them!
119. Robin | 11.04.08
Even though it seems silly here, I do understand it’s important to not influence voting in any way — not even by inducements to vote. But…how about just a small freebie “in celebration of election day”? Maybe add a red white and blue theme. That would capture the spirit and be a nice promo.
120. Abgrund | 11.04.08
Why should buying votes be illegal? Senator Obama has already spent more than ten dollars for every vote he’ll get. If he had to pay the voters directly, they’d at least get ten bucks out of it, which is better than anything else they can hope to get out of an election.
121. Missing the Point | 11.04.08
This is not a bribe but a thank you. I think many of you are missing the point. People vote because they want to not to get a freebie.
Instead of getting upset that this is a conspiracy to get lazy, overweight, caffeine-addicted people to vote, relax. Enjoy your doughnut and coffee as a pat-on-the-back thanks for doing your civic duty.
122. FL | 11.04.08
All of these freebies for voting are a mockery of our political system, and should be prohibited. If someone out there wasn’t going to vote, and only voted because of the free stuff, it would be better for everyone if he just stayed home. More votes does not make for a better democratic process.
123. HurricaneRick | 11.04.08
This law is clearly an attempt to prevent individuals, corporations or other organization from buying votes for a particular candidate or part. Imagine if Starbucks were to offer $50 for everyone who voted for Obama. How may people out there would vote for Obama simply to collect the $50.
This is a classic example of a law on the books that was written with good intentions but is poorly worded. As long as Starbucks simply requires a vote and isn’t encouraging or requiring that you vote for a particular candidate or party they should be able to give any gift or reward they deem fit.
124. JPM in NC | 11.04.08
Coffee at Starbucks seems harmless, but only because it seems non-partisan. Imagine your local Chamber of Commerce (a Republican bastion) offering $100 bills instead. Clearly a line should be drawn, but how? Given all the “liberals & lattes” jokes of the past season, not even Starbucks is completely immune from perceived partisanship, and can we really say that $100 is a bribe but decent coffee isn’t? The Georgia State Law may not be so bad after all.
125. gds | 11.04.08
Nobody is turned downa coffee, donut, or ice cream based on ‘who’ they voted for, I have no problem with giving it away, but I would suggest they give away the freebies at the polling locations to help the folks that are standing in line..
127. how I see it… | 11.04.08
#32. “smarter than you” By your logic that coffee, or other enticements only encourge the unsophisticated to make decisions that may impact all of us, therefore perhaps we should resume literacy tests or some other evaluation of intellectual horsepower.
Who gets to judge, based on what criteria? …Now do you understand the right’s reference to the concept of elitists; and black America’s distrust of the government’s commitment to ensure equal protection.
128. robert | 11.04.08
Jim, Absente voting is not early voting. If you have to mail it in, it is not early voting. I mean an actual polling place where you can walk in and vote early. When I lived in TN they had early voting, and believe me 15 minutes in line as opposed to an hour and a half is heaven.
I dont think anyone is voting for free coffee. Free coffee isnt worth voting for. But free coffee does add to the election day atmosphere. It makes the entire situation more bareable.
To all of these comments wanting to make voting harder. Of course we all want an informed electorate. But then we have to have someone decide whether or not we are informed. Both canidates list of promises and platforms are far too broad for most people to know. Then we also have to consider who is more capable to actually get things done. Who we choose is often decided more by our intution about people then anything we know. Requiring people to jump through hoops wont make anyone vote for a better canidate.
129. tmg | 11.04.08
Bah Humbug to the ‘authorities’ and their monitoring of illegal incentives. Don’t these people have anything better to do? Let us celebrate election day and give what is ours to whomever we want…
It would be different if these businesses were only treating those who agreed with their candidate choice.
130. YPmule | 11.04.08
We live in Idaho in a small remote community, no Starbucks or Krispy Kreme here. They set it up so we can all vote via absentee ballots. We love that. Vote in the privacy of our home, sign and return the ballots (pre-paid postage!) We voted last week. I think this saved our county a lot of money - and it saved us from having to drive 70 miles to a polling place.
It doesn’t sound like these companies are trying to “buy votes” - it sounds more like an advertising gimmick.
131. Joe west | 11.04.08
I think everybody should be made to sing that song like a Rhinestone cowboy before and after the vote for standing in long lines yall vote early and offten yall here me early.
Glenn campbell you know ither became or was a Jehovah’s witness bless his sweet old country heart. yall know the difference between a ham and eggs breakfast the Chicken is involved and the Pigs committed god bless you all
because i don’t vote.
133. Ferdinand Burfopolis | 11.04.08
Yeah, Gloria - maybe enought NOT said!
Your signature line SHOULD read:
/s/ gloria poole, RN, artist [and PINHEAD], Denver CO 80203
134. Observer | 11.04.08
It would be nicer if someone would pass out the coffee and donuts to the people standing IN the 2 hour line. It’s probably illegal too, but it sure would help the folks missing their lunch hour to vote (or those who were there at 6 AM). But I guess they’d have to do it at every location in every district for it to be a fair thing to do.
I think I’m going to protest that there isn’t any Ben & Jerry’s here…people in locations with Ben & Jerry’s are getting more incentive to vote! (If you send me my ice cream in small, unmarked containers, I’ll forget it ever happened… ;))
135. Jason C | 11.04.08
Not sure about the legality of the coffee/donut offer, but after reading the story, I really want a donut. Guess I’ll go vote now.
136. commoner | 11.04.08
One of my main reasons for voting for Obama is because of background in teaching Constitutional Law (and Political Science.) There are so many issues and diverse people in this country, that we need a leader who has spent his adult life contemplating and working with the law on different levels. There seems to be alot of Americans that are so fearful about everything, that they have pushed for protective laws that are beyond the pale of common sense. Law enforcement has become the biggest business in this country, and it keeps expanding. People with few resourses are being eaten up and crushed by this fear and made into criminals. Can you imagine explaining on a job application that you are a felon–with businesses looking at 2,000 applicants, does anyone think the secretary is going to look to see that the person is a felon because they gave a donut away to a voter. Laws like this need to be revisited and revised to fit today’s realities.
137. Pete | 11.04.08
Is that the law Georgia enacted to stop officials from collecting the poll tax?
138. Los Angeles Tim | 11.04.08
Buying votes is one thing but encouraging people TO vote is another.
Our country is plagued with low voter turn out and we should be commending businesses that want to change that trend by offering encouragement. I haven’t seen anything that said starbucks is only giving out coffee to those who voted no on 8 or for Obama.
As long as they are being impartial and simply encouraging people to get out and vote regardless of your political leanings, then I say more power to them!
139. Los Angeles Tim | 11.04.08
Buying votes is one thing but encouraging people TO vote is another.
Our country is plagued with low voter turn out and we should be commending businesses that want to change that trend by offering encouragement. I haven’t seen anything that said starbucks is only giving out coffee to those who voted no on 8 or for Obama.
As long as they are being impartial and simply encouraging people to get out and vote regardless of your political leanings, then I say more power to them!
140. votedtwice | 11.04.08
it’s so easy to vote now, I voted twice in two different towns.
They don’t check in my state. My father died this year and I felt I should vote for him and for me. My girlfriend is not a citizen and she voted as well. They don’t ask for birth certificates or passports, just driving license and a phone bill or something. Why limit non-citizens to just contributing money to the campaigns? They should have a say too, especially if they are living here in the US. It was easy to contribute from outside the country with the convenient websites, just need a credit card! Let them vote since our presidental choice will affect other nations, they probably should have a say in it. Everyone vote, and as often as you can! Go Obama!
141. MARSHA | 11.04.08
So typical–I can almost count the votes by the comments…Republican, Democrat, Republican, Democrat, Democrat, Democrat… I can imagine the majority of people appreciate exactly what these businesses are doing to encourage people to vote. However, who is it whining about the homeless would like a cup of coffee too. Honey, bring one with you and we’ll give them yours…and, don’t forget all the illegal folks when you get your raise this year–they’d probably appreciate another handout.. Why not encourage voting as well and citizenship–oh, I forgot that would leave one political party with nothing to whine about!
143. Liz | 11.04.08
#32 is correct, it should take more than bribes to vote. Most of the young
people don’t even know who’s running or for “what” There should be a
civics test for all before voting. But that won’t help the homeless get their
free cigs and coffee will it? Does it ever occur to them that after each
election nothing changes and they are still who they are because they want
to be?
144. Voted | 11.04.08
Let the people who are interested and know the issues go and vote. Uniformed voters are just used by savvy politicians to pass things they want.
Do we really need more people randomly voting based on the title of a proposition or the last name of a candidate?
145. Joe | 11.04.08
So long as they don’t tell you to vote for any particular candidate, I don’t think it should be illegal. Anyhow, it’s nice to see these businesses encouraging people to do their patriotic duty.
I just wish we’d get with the times and make election day a federal holiday (or move it to a Saturday, at least).
146. Aloha | 11.04.08
I just returned from voting and this article caught my eye immediately. Having voted in California for the past 35 years I have become accustomed to the coupons on my voter stubs. Though I can not recall ever actually redeming any of them. This is my first time voting in the state of Hawaii and as I left the polling site with my stub I thought, “Hmmm, where’s the coupon?” As many comments point out just about anything can used as a tool to manipulate, but I can’t think of a government that collapsed because people took time out for a cup of coffee and a bite to eat. I think I’ll go join some friends for coffee and enjoy the election results and being part of history. (What if I let them pay? Oh-oh.)
147. Marian | 11.04.08
The madness never ends! Get out there and vote people! Here’s my suggestion…
Start spending more money with these business who have offered up these wonderful incentives, for a job well done! I for one,will!
148. JZ | 11.04.08
Of course this should be a felony. Wake up, people!!! This is just another Republican ploy to encourage their party members to vote. Everyone knows Republicans eat more donuts and ice cream than Democrats. Just check out the size of their mascot for proof.
149. B. Bored | 11.04.08
Lots of churces have free coffee and donuts following the service. God doesn’t seem to mind!
150. Francesca B | 11.04.08
In a country where more people watch American Idol than our presidential debates because the debates are just that full of tripe, I can understand the donut (or is it Doughnut) mentality.
I saw some interesting ideas in here, but what we need is an electoral system that requires no party (like on the local level in many towns) with people required to stand on their own choices and records rather than the party platform.
As for registration, when they get a drivers’ license and are a legal resident of the United States, they could register to vote. When they get a state issued ID and be registered to vote. They get federal monies, in any way, shape or form, or pay federal monies… and are citizens, they are registered to vote.
Requiring people to vote won’t help.
Things need to be fixed by making them simpler, not more complicated.
And this whole thing about coffee and a donut? I’ve been a registered voter and have voted in every election since I was 17 years and 7 months old. Puhleeze… I appreciate the reward for my ‘job well done’. I didn’t vote straight ticket. I didn’t listen to the disparaging remarks. I just went with what I needed: the issues that matter to me.
Simple, really. And I can say I feel confident I voted correctly.
151. Barry / Boston | 11.04.08
I think we have more important things to worry about. We should be going after those people who are disuading people to vote by fraudulent phone calls, messages and emails.
152. Mike | 11.04.08
These people are all going to get caught and go to jail! Free coffee and doughnuts always attracts cops!!! Lots of them… Beware…
153. Commakaze | 11.04.08
‘Scuse me, but do some of ya’ll *really* think that some people woke up this morning, turned on the radio, heard “Free coffee at Starbucks and a free donut at Krispy Kreme!” and went, “Hot DIGGITY! I wasn’t going to vote before, but I SURE WILL NOW!”? Because it really looks like you do think that, and that’s utter nonsense.
Even on the off chance that someone did do that, I think anyone who’s willing to go to all the trouble to look up their polling place at the last second and check to see if they’re even registered, then drive out and stand in a two-hour line shouldn’t be classified as a standard “lazy American.”
Surely a lazy American wouldn’t stand for anything like two hours just to have to read a piece of paper, think about its contents, and then express an opinion. That’s like standing in line to take your SATs…
154. DOUG | 11.04.08
So, if they give you an “I Voted” sticker, isn’t that enticing votes by giving away free stuff. I wonder if they do that in Georgia where it is a felony?
155. Commakaze | 11.04.08
“There should be no outside incentives given to register or vote. It is not only our right but our duty to vote.”
And as everyone righteous knows, duty can’t be any fun. If there’s any fun accompanying it, you’re not doing your duty right!!!
“And please Democrats, stop trying to get military voters ballots disqualified.”
****! I knew there was something I’d forgotten to add to my Registered Democrat Duties list. Thanks for reminding me that I stereotype everyone in the military as against me and mine. None of them could *possibly* vote for my guy, so their votes shouldn’t count! I also appreciate the reminder that I think being shot at makes someone less worthy of voting. Yeah … That’s the America I live for.
“Incidentally, for all those who say make voting harder, you don’t want lazy people deciding your future, I agree I don’t want the apathetic voters for coffee, donuts & ice-cream at the polling stations either, but, let’s face it, if you didn’t have these voters, the students and apathetic, undriven, less educated voters, Obama or the Democrats would never win anything…!”
My favorite contradiction in this, I think, is that students are uneducated (who are the educated people, then? The people without educations?). My second favorite is that lazy, apathetic, undriven people somehow magically appear at the polling stations on election day. Maybe their mommies get them dressed and cart them out there, then promise them an extra $5 of allowance and an extra hour watching TV if they show Mommy their “I Voted” sticker?
“Go McCain / Palin !!!!!!”
Yes. Please do go.
156. PolitcallyIncorrect | 11.04.08
Reasons to vote for Obama:
“…he looks like a President…”
“He deserves it.”
What a bunch of baffoons.
As recall is what these same voters in 2006 that have caused many of today’s problems, need I say, “Lowest Congress approval rating EVER!!”
157. Terri | 11.04.08
Robert (#18):
I’m in Virginia and had no trouble voting. Got to the polls at 5:45 am and was all done by 6:30. At my precinct, they were actively pulling people with last names A-D and S-Z out of the general line and moving them inside for exactly the reason you mentioned - those lines were practically empty. I was one of the lucky ones that got pulled up, but my friend wasn’t, and he was done 10 minutes after me. So not every precinct is a mess…and giving up an hour and a half of your time for such an important civic duty is hardly a tragedy, is it?
159. nemo | 11.04.08
If you voted you have no room to complain as you have contributed to the continuation of the established machinery that brings more war.
If voting changed anything if would be outlawed. “you think your so cleaver and classless and free but your still peasents as far as I can see.”
160. bryanh | 11.04.08
Just goes to show you that Glenn Campbell wouldn’t walk a mile to see an ant eat a bale of hay. (trivia there, any takers?)
Wife n I did, however, go and get our free starbutts coffee after voting today. Only time I’ve been in starbutts, much overrated, just like the 2 main presidential candidates offered up this year.
161. tad | 11.04.08
what they are afraid of but not saying is that the starbucks and ben and jerry offers are going appeal to one party more than the other - poor people are much more likely to consider free ice cream and coffee a decisive factor than rich people - and so there will be more poor people voting at the prompting of freebies, and they aint gonna be voting for the party that’s been in office for the last 8 years, god bless them
162. Kipper | 11.04.08
Once again in this election words and phrases are being taken out of context and being made something that they weren’t intended to say. The Key words in the Georgia law stated in the article really are about bribery for a “particular candidate” in any primary or election shall be guilty of a felony.”
Not for having free refreshments after you vote.
163. BartD | 11.04.08
You guys are missing the obvious.
The intent of the law about free stuff just to encourage people to vote has a place.
Free stuff can’t be involved in voting, regardless of whether you are affiliated with a party or not or tell people who to vote for or not. There is just too much chance for corruption.
Scenario 1:
A guy with a big bus with “McCain” on the side goes down to a homeless shelter. He is wearing a McCain T-shirt. He offers to pay $10 and give everyone a cup of coffee and a cheeseburger for anyone who will get in the bus and go with him to the polling center to vote. He tells them you can vote for whoever you want and you still get the free stuff. On the way down to the voting center, he lectures them on the virtues of a McCain presidency.
They get off the bus, vote, get back on and he gives them the free stuff.
Should this be legal? He told them they could vote for whoever they wanted.
He is just rewarding them for voting by giving them free stuff.
While true, the starbucks or krispy kreme free give aways are not nearly is extreme, but to prevent the slippery slope of corruption you have to draw a line somewhere, and it is much easier to draw a line at “no free stuff/rewards for voting”.
164. wlv | 11.04.08
really tho, in the grander scheme of things, what are the odds of someone voting JUST because they could get a free this or that out of the deal? particularly now with the logistics of voting so potentially less than convenient. if i had to guess (and that’s really all i can do, of course) i’d say that that for most, the free offers were of none effect. the bottom line is that people will go get something that they want because it’s free. the companies on some level may be encouraging a vote, but at the end of the day it’s just marketing, which is pretty obvious. just adding my 2 cents.
165. dom | 11.04.08
How ironic. How letter-of-the-law but no Spirit. How Obama.
Obama can legally spend an UNLIMITED amount of money, donated by some, to bribe votes from all with an offer to take money away from ‘5%’ (according to their abilities) to give to ‘95%’ (according to their needs) — but he can’t LEGALLY give you one single free cup of coffee or donut for voting his way.
Now that’s twisted evil genius: Attempting to use the ‘willing’ proceeds from capitalism against us to fund acceptance of creeping Marxist socialism.
That’s why Obama reneged on public financing — he couldn’t generate the massive seed money required to run his con otherwise.
79. Shan
That is absolutely hideous — and CREEPY. They came to your house? Guess what’s even creepier Shan? The same network of ‘volunteers’ and paid staffers would already be in place to do similar and likewise after the election, should Obama win. Perhaps ‘educate’ you or your 18-year-old on pending Bills before Congress that Obama either agrees or disagrees with?
Think Goebbels-class David Axelrod isn’t going, “Hey, ya know, we’ve got this extensive network of PRE-ELECTION volunteers, and they have lists, with names and addresses on them, so AFTER the election if we…”
166. Sarah | 11.04.08
Illegal to buy votes? Interesting, Obama has promised, if elected, to send every person, earning less than $75,000 annually, a $500 check. Sounds like he’s buying votes with “government money”. He’s taking $500 of my hard earned dollars and giving it away to those he determines are more deserving. I’m not voting for Obama, but I’ll be paying for his bribes. Nice if you’re on the receiving end. Legal??…it shouldn’t be.
167. ace driscoll | 11.04.08
do I now have to share my coffee with those too lazy to vote ?
might be official tomorrow !!
168. guyie | 11.04.08
They lowered the bar so far that even low-lifes like me can vote now. I only did it for the donuts.
169. HurricaneRick | 11.04.08
This law is clearly an attempt to prevent individuals, corporations or other organization from buying votes for a particular candidate or part. Imagine if Starbucks were to offer $50 for everyone who voted for Obama. How may people out there would vote for Obama simply to collect the $50.
This is a classic example of a law on the books that was written with good intentions but is poorly worded. As long as Starbucks simply requires a vote and isn’t encouraging or requiring that you vote for a particular candidate or party they should be able to give any gift or reward they deem fit.
170. Kyle | 11.04.08
Although it seems to be much to do about nothing, these laws were passed because poor people were once enticed to vote for corrupt candidates with the promise of some little perk. This was especially common in the deep south after the Civil War where many elections were skewed by paying for votes. Most of these laws were passed to help keep the system honest. They may be largely unnecessary today, but given the recent reports of voter fraud surfacing during htis election, maybe it’s not such a bad idea. It does seem like there should be some way of rewarding patriotism without breaking the law, though. But how is the question…..
171. jDavid, Fort Lauderdale | 11.04.08
The Georgia law says, “particular candidate”. No one making these offers is requiring a vote for a particular candidate. Reading is Fundamental. How did this story get any traction?
172. Sad | 11.04.08
@157 Equating your scenario with what is happening in this article is extreme. Starbucks and Krispy are not advocating any party or preference.
You’re just another example of a killjoy who wants more laws to make sure no one gets their feelings hurt.
Following your logic and the letter of this law, there could be NO free freebies by any company, group or individual of any kind on election day. It would be necessary to ensure there is no influence on voting real or perceived. After all, B&J is giving away ice cream to anyone without regard to voting on election day. Consequently, same would go for discounts and sales — none would be allowed on election day to prevent a perception of catering to people who are voting.
Businesses would need to be policed as well. Voters who work at a business would have to go before or after work or take the day off. Business who allow employees to leave work temporily to vote would be prosecuted for “paying” them to vote.
No more “I voted stickers” as this breaks the letter of the law, and no more press/cameras at polling places, because some people might be voting for the chance to be on TV. The list goes on and on. More laws, attorneys, enforcement and bigger prisons to enforce such voting “corruption” as you describe it.
174. Walter L. Johnson | 11.04.08
For a very long time I have felt that discounts or performances available only to those who vote would promote voting. Being realistic, especially with such long lines in some jurisdictions requiring hours of waiting, why shouldn’t those who endure get something? After all they are losing time they could be working, so voting with long delays is not a cost neutral thing. However, a more appropriate action might be to give discount coupons to voters in election lines. That could not be considered electioneering.
When we lived in Colorado, employers were only required to give people time off from work sufficient to guarantee they had a two hour window in which to vote. If people went in the morning before work and had a multiple hour weight they could lose pay and face other penalties from their employer.
Where I live now in Washington, all of our voting is now by mail, so voting is nearly cost free, but nationally that is not true. (A voter still has to pay postage or drop the ballot at one of the drop off locations.) But, I still have great empathy for
175. FreeAtLast | 11.04.08
Election days should be a day to celebrate our freedom to vote as we wish. Whether it’s a community party after the polls close, to watch the election results on a bunch of large-screen monitors, or if it’s just a free cup of coffee, celebrate your freedom.
Should everyone vote? Yes, of course. Should everyone know who they’re voting for and why they’re voting for them, YES. Suggesting that the lazy or under-educated should stay home is not very patriotic. Suggesting that we continue to encourage active and intelligent participation is extremely patriotic.
Do it!
176. Andrew | 11.04.08
“Any person who gives or receives […] money or gifts for the purpose of registering as a voter, voting, or voting for a particular candidate in any primary or election shall be guilty of a felony.”
Doesn’t anyone else notice that this law applies to those who haven’t yet voted? Doesn’t anyone notice that all examples of “gifts” provided in this very small article are for voters who have _already_ cast their vote? All simply ask you to say you _have_ voted.
What possible incentive could be provided?
As for undue influence on voting, it’s called politics. Every political discussion has the potential to influence our decisions. Should we just stop talking politics for the month prior to the election to minimize voting?
177. Stupid | 11.04.08
If you people think that the REASON these people got out to vote was a free donut or a free coffee… you’re truly ridiculous.
The American obviously didn’t know that starbucks and Krispy Kreme would be doing this a MONTH ago when the deadline to register was. (Or even 8 months ago when the deadline to be registered for the PRIMARYS were!!!) Most of these people already took the initiative to register and get themselves ready to vote much earlier than they knew about a free coffee at Starbucks.
And if a company wants to promote americans to actually get out and vote and reward them the only way they are able to - people shouldn’t complain. I personally find it rewarding enough to know that my vote means something even if my candidate doens’t win. Getting a free coffee on top of that is just a perk that I’m proud to indulge in. (I’ll take a free anything anytime, free drinks enterance into bars and clubs because I’m female or a free coffee from Barnes and Nobles because Im a member of their club etc etc)
You people are far too critical of an innocent offer. I doubt there were many americans that spent their time to get registered to vote, then decided not to, but at the last minute because they realized they’d be getting a free donut decided that “hey, heck… i’ll go vote to get that donut” and if that really was what motivated them…..
Whatever Then! It’s not your place to tell them otherwise!
179. John S. Mosby | 11.05.08
Never read so many doltish comments in my life. No wonder the country is so messed up.
180. Bob | 11.05.08
So, a political candidate(aka Obama) can promise a check(aka welfare, not a tax cut for those who don’t even pay income tax) for thousands of dollars if you elect him. But, Krispy Kreme can’t give you a donut just for voting for any candidate or issue.
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Jimmy Orr has worked in politics for the majority of his professional career working for two U.S. Senators, two Governors and one President. Most recently, Orr served as White House Spokesman and Internet Director for President George W. Bush and Special Advisor to Governor Schwarzenegger for Internet Communications.
David Cook is Washington bureau chief of The Christian Science Monitor and host of the Monitor's newsmaker breakfasts. He was the Monitor's editor from 1994 to 2001. Cook is a graduate of Principia College, served in the U.S. Army, was a Bagehot Fellow at Columbia University, and is a member of the Gridiron Club, Washington's oldest journalistic organization.
1. Dan | 11.04.08
Its interesting how many barriers we are used to when it comes to voting. Just close your eyes and imagine a system set up to honestly encourage voting - first of all it’d be on the week-end when most do not work, it’d be all day, and you could register and vote the same day — right???
OK, now open your eyes and see what is happening today and the past few weeks - anyone who wants to vote in person has to endure endless lines - clearly the system does not envision a high turnout (what Europeans expect and find normal).
Something is wrong and must be fixed!
In the county I live in in Florida the Republican in charge of voting said she could not find enough locations with parking and reduced the number of early voting locations to 3! She forgot about all the libraries?
We need a voting fix if we are serious about our democracy.