VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. - With the presidential primaries
lurking around the corner, there are a few things service members must
remember during this upcoming political season.
When you joined the military or became a federal employee, you did so with
the knowledge that this decision came with some sacrifice.
Everyone is encouraged to register to vote, research candidates and vote for
the candidates. However, for this representative democracy to function
properly, civil servants and military professionals cannot be seen as
partisans.
Both military members and federal employees work for the government, and, in
doing so, they must support elected officials regardless of whether or not
they voted for or against particular candidates. For this reason, among
others, getting a paycheck directly from the federal government necessarily
limits a person's ability to participate in some aspects of the political
process.
Department of Defense Directive 1344.10, "Political Activities by Members of
the Armed Forces on Active Duty," and Air Force Instruction 51-902,
"Political Activities by Members of the U.S. Air Force," outline permitted
and restricted political actions for active military members. Service members
who violate these rules may face punishment under the Uniform Code of
Military Justice.
There are some reoccurring issues surrounding prohibited political
activities. A frequent issue concerns whether or not an individual can
display a large political sign on his or her car or truck. Displaying a large
political sign on your automobile is prohibited. However, members are allowed
to display a political bumper sticker on their vehicle.
Military members are prohibited from using official authority to influence an
election or solicit votes for a specific candidate or issue.
Military members are limited in their involvement in the political process
off duty as well. This includes being a candidate for, or holding, political
office, except in those circumstances authorized by the AFI.
Speaking at any partisan political gathering, including a radio or television
program, and advocating for a partisan political candidate or party is also
prohibited.
Military members should reference AFI 51-902 when they have any questions
regarding the legality of their political activities
Rules governing political activities by government civilians are found in a
federal law known as the Hatch Act. DOD civilians who violate the Hatch Act
face adverse personnel actions, including suspensions and employment
termination.
Most restrictions surrounding the Hatch Act are centered on the prevention of
supervisors influencing subordinates to participate in or contribute to
partisan groups or candidates. Federal employees may not display partisan
political campaign materials in the workplace.
While federal employees may express opinions about candidates and issues when
off duty, when on duty, in uniform, in a federal building, or in a federally
owned or leased vehicle, federal employees may not express opinions directed
at the success or failure of a political party, candidate for partisan
political office or partisan political group.
There are three important things to remember during the upcoming political
season. First, regardless of status, using command influence to sway
subordinates to vote for a particular party, candidate or issue is prohibited
by law or directive.
Second, when you receive a paycheck from the federal government, some aspects
of your political freedom are limited.
Third, if you are unsure whether or not a political activity is approved,
reference AFI 51-902 or contact your base legal office.