Reservists and the election: Dos and don’ts Published Aug. 20, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Richard Gonzales 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- The 2012 elections are just months away. Local, state and national races are heating up and campaigns are in the final push to Election Day. We've got you covered on the dos and don'ts for reservist and civilian employee involvement in the political process. "The overriding principle is neutrality," said Col. Robert Palmer, Director of Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs. "As Airmen, we may hold political beliefs and exercise our right to vote, but we should avoid creating the appearance that the military endorses any particular candidate." Here's a condensed list of dos and don'ts from DoDD 1344.10. Read the Department of Defense Directive for more in-depth guidance. Civilian employees, including ARTs in civilian status, must comply with the Hatch Act. Do: Register and cast your vote Attend rallies or political meetings as a spectator, caucus as a voter, or participate in a campaign for a candidate in your personal capacity only "Like," "friend," or "follow" the social media website of a political party or partisan candidate, campaign, group, or cause. If the site/post identifies you as on active duty, you must clearly state the views expressed are your views and not those of the Department of Defense Don't: Participate in any political activity in uniform Participate in any of the activities during duty hours (unless you are on leave) Give your rank and title/position to endorse a candidate or trash another. Military members cannot make public political speeches or serve in any official capacity in partisan groups, campaigns, or conventions Hand out flyers, brochures or display bumper stickers, signs, etc. at your workplace. Do place tasteful bumper stickers or signs in your car window (subject to base rules; check your base regulations) Talk with subordinates about who you are voting for, or tell them how to vote. Do not endorse specific candidates within earshot of subordinates Defame or use inappropriate language against the current commander in chief, even if you disagree with policy decisions or legislation Use government computers or e-mail system for political activity Hatch Act: http://www.osc.gov/hatchact.htm DoDD 1344.10: www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/134410p.pdf