where are our rights?

I know most of my readers are from VA, and I'm ASSUMING most of you are going to vote ;) so here's something you need to know.

They (the commonwealth of VA) put a ban on ANY campaign clothing, buttons, hats, paraphernalia, anything.

..........

No really though, they did.

They said it has too much influence and puts tension on other voters.

1-- Isn't running for president ONLY about the campaign? Seriously, I'm not saying it's right, but when you watch commercials it's not about the politics, it's about who you see the most, and who they can shut down the worst. What is an average citizen wearing a button going to do to a voter? AND!! If you're going to vote, I'd hope that you'd know who you're voting for BEFORE you get there. If you're unsure, I'd say don't do it.

2-- "Right to free speech." "Right to petition." The Bill of Rights. Where is this?! Doesn't this ban completely violate these? Apparently they say it has to weigh that against the right to vote free of undue influence or the tension that candidate advocacy might create.

Oh and if you're NOT from VA, worry if you are from PA. They're considering it too.

Ugh. I'm glad I'm sending an absentee ballot in. Not that I have a campaign shirt, but I would love to get one.

Hmm, I guess I better holler at ebaY PRONTO.

Have fun being plain, you Virginia voters.

love,
elizabethany