Election Day in the United States often coincides with a variety of promotional offers from businesses aiming to encourage civic participation. These promotions range from discounted rides to polling locations to free food items and beverages. However, the intersection of marketing strategies and election laws creates a complex environment where consumers and businesses must navigate legal restrictions. Federal law specifically prohibits offering incentives in exchange for voting, which means that any promotion tied directly to the act of casting a ballot could be deemed illegal. Despite this, many companies structure their offers to comply with regulations by making them available to all customers, regardless of voting status, or by focusing on logistical support like transportation to polling places.
The legality of Election Day freebies hinges on 18 U.S. Code § 597, which states that any person who knowingly provides or solicits any expenditure in exchange for voting, withholding a vote, or registering to vote is subject to fines or imprisonment. Election law experts emphasize that while these laws exist, prosecution is rare. The key distinction lies in whether an offer is conditional on proof of voting. For instance, promotions requiring an "I Voted" sticker may violate federal statutes, whereas general Election Day discounts open to everyone are typically permissible.
Several major companies have offered transportation assistance to voters. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have provided discounted rides to polling locations. Uber has offered 50% off trips to the polls (up to $10) and features a "Go Vote!" tile in its app to help users find their nearest polling place. Lyft has provided 50% off or up to $5 off rides nationwide, with free rides available to underserved communities facing transportation barriers. These offers are framed as general promotions rather than rewards for voting, with companies explicitly stating they are not intended to induce voting.
Food and beverage promotions are also common. Krispy Kreme has offered two dozen doughnuts for $13 to rewards members via email coupon. Dunkin' provides free medium hot or iced coffee to DD Perks loyalty program members on Election Day. Biggby Coffee has run buy-one-get-one-free deals or $1 off any drink up to 24 ounces. Bobo's distributed 2,000 coupons for free oat bars to voters. Potbelly Sandwich Shop gave free cookies with any entree purchase. HopCat offered free "crack fries" to patrons, and The Apparatus Room in Detroit provided $1 off draft Stroh's beer for those showing an "I Voted" sticker. Some businesses, like Sycamore in Missouri, adjusted their promotions to offer half-price items to all customers on Election Day to avoid legal issues.
Other types of businesses have joined in as well. The Field Museum in Chicago initially planned to offer free admission to those with an "I Voted" sticker but changed the offer to free admission for all Illinois residents, regardless of voting status. Madame Tussauds Hollywood offered free admission valued at $25.95 as a "thank you for voting," though this type of offer may conflict with federal law if tied directly to voting.
Organizations like Pizza to the Polls provide food to people waiting in line to vote, operating under the belief that giving food to those already decided to vote is legal, similar to employers allowing time off to vote. This organization has funded thousands of pizzas in previous elections.
Consumers should verify offers directly with local businesses, as promotions vary by location and year. While many deals are available nationwide, participation may be limited to specific franchises or regions. Checking official company websites or contacting local outlets ensures accurate information.
Conclusion
Election Day promotions exist in a legally sensitive area, with federal laws prohibiting direct incentives for voting. Businesses often navigate this by offering discounts and freebies to all customers or providing logistical support like transportation. Consumers can take advantage of various deals, from free coffee and doughnuts to discounted rides, but should remain aware that offers requiring proof of voting may not be legal. Verifying details with official sources helps ensure compliance and maximizes the benefits of available promotions.