Wyoming Electioneering Ban Challenge

Lawsuit on behalf of a Wyoming voter against Wyoming Secretary of State Charles Gray (R) and Laramie County officials challenging a state law that bans electioneering within 300-feet of any polling location. The law creates a “buffer zone” around polling locations where individuals cannot display campaign signs, distribute campaign literature, collect signatures for petitions, or conduct any canvassing or polling unless they are conducting exit polls for a news media organization. The plaintiff argues this law is an unconstitutional violation of his right to free speech because it unfairly limits his ability to express his political opinions. 

On July 21, 2021, a federal judge ruled in favor of the state of Wyoming, finding the state’s electioneering ban to be a constitutional effort to prevent voter intimidation and influence at the polls.

The plaintiffs appealed the district court’s decision to the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. On Oct. 23, 2023, a unanimous three-judge panel upheld the decision from the district court. The plaintiffs filed a petition for the entire 10th Circuit to rehear the case en banc. On Nov. 20, 2023, the 10th Circuit denied that request. 

On Feb. 19, 2024, the plaintiffs filed a petition for certiorari in the U.S. Supreme Court.

RESULT: On April 15, 2024, the Supreme Court denied the plaintiffs’ petition for certiorari. The law remains in effect.

Last updated: April 15, 2024 9:41 am EST