WWE files lawsuit against Connecticut secretary of state
WWE issued the following news release today:
“On behalf of myself, my company, WWE fans and any Connecticut citizen who wants to exercise their constitutional right to vote, I have filed a lawsuit today asserting that Susan Bysiewicz’s directive that allows poll workers to refuse registered voters wearing WWE merchandise the right to vote is a flagrant act of censorship and discrimination,” said Vince McMahon, Chairman and CEO, World Wrestling Entertainment.
Last week, Bysiewicz told Connecticut election officials that they can ask voters wearing WWE merchandise to cover it up before allowing them to vote on Tuesday because it could be interpreted as campaigning for former WWE CEO Linda McMahon, the Republican Senate candidate. Campaigning – which includes wearing political paraphernalia – within 75 feet of polling places is illegal in the state.
Comments
Yay. Vince is my hero standing up for my rights to wear his gear while voting for his wife. What a guy!
Posted by: AMC | October 26, 2010 5:18 PM
Does anyone know if there is a precedent for rulings about people with past affiliations? Were people allowed to wear Bills gear to vote for Jack Kemp? Michigan football hats for Gerald Ford? Even eBay gear for Meg Whitman?
If not, Vince probably has a strong First Amendment case.
Posted by: Andrew | October 26, 2010 5:34 PM
Well, I'm conflicted. I think the original claim was ridiculous, and I think this lawsuit is ridiculous as well. The campaign (and Vince) would be wise to just let this go.
Posted by: Ken Raining | October 26, 2010 6:00 PM
This company is so unlikable.
Posted by: sebastian | October 26, 2010 6:09 PM
Awesome! Remind me never to mess with Vince McMahon. He is not a stupid man, and when it comes to protecting/promoting his business, he's like a caged wolverine. I predict he will "win" this in the end, one way or another.
Posted by: Curtis | October 26, 2010 7:38 PM
I know the laws on campaigning or electioneering are different in each state, but I remember a few years ago when in Texas, the referendum to build the new Cowboys stadium was on the ballot, people were told that they could not wear Dallas Cowboys itemswhen they came to vote.
Posted by: ZT in NC | October 27, 2010 8:49 AM