LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- With election season heating up, it’s important to remember the rules service members and Department of Defense civilians must adhere to.
“There are plenty of ways you can still get involved — and you should,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Stephanie Howell, 19th Airlift Wing judge advocate. “Although military personnel are encouraged to vote, engaging in political activities is prohibited.”
When stating their political opinions, service members must avoid the inference that their views are supported or endorsed by the DOD or a specific branch of service.
On social media, service members and DOD civilians may become a “friend” of or “like,” the Facebook page, or “follow” the twitter account of a political party or partisan candidate, campaign, group, or cause but cannot invite others to do the same.
“Some activities, although not expressly prohibited, may be contrary to the spirit of the regulation. Be especially careful of posting on social media — it’s easy to accidentally step over the line,” Howell said. “Campaigning for a candidate, soliciting contributions and marching in or attending a political campaign while in uniform are prohibited.”
For a complete list of permissible and prohibited activities, consult DOD Directive 1344.10, Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces Guidance for Military Personnel.
For more information on what is permissible during an election season, contact the legal office at (501) 987-7886.