Free Election Day Food

Several food chains announced they would offer free food on Election Day 2008 in the United States. After casting a ballot on November 4, customers can choose from a variety of treats including Krispy Kreme doughnuts, Ben and Jerry's ice cream, Starbucks coffee and chicken finger meals. Starbucks later changed its policy to offer free tall coffees to every customer, amid concerns of possible election law violations.Washington Wire (WSJ): Starbucks Offers Free Coffee on Election Day (November 3, 2008)

On January 14, 2009, Krispy Kreme doughnuts announced that it would also offer free doughnuts to customers on January 20, 2009 in honor of Inauguration Day. Krispy Kreme is calling the promotion "a celebration of the freedom of choice".PR Newswire: Press Release: Krispy Kreme Celebrates... (January 14, 2009)

Concerns were mounting in the state of Georgia over Starbucks' decision to offer free cups of coffee to voters. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel sent a note explaining that state law prohibits "offering 'gifts' for voting" in the general election.Political Insider (AJC): Starbucks May Rethink that Free Cuppa (November 3, 2008)

On November 3, 2008, a Starbucks spokeswoman indicated the coffee chain would offer all customers a tall brewed coffee "to ensure we are in compliance with election law."Washington Wire (WSJ): Starbucks Offers Free Coffee on Election Day (November 3, 2008)

"Any person who gives or receives, or offers to give or receive, or participates in the giving or receiving of money or gifts for the purpose of registering as a voter, voting, or voting for a particular candidate in any primary or election shall be guilty of a felony. [A business is] free to offer 'Election Day' specials or sales for all of its customers, but gifts, incentives or specials just for voters is prohibited under this provision."Political Insider (AJC): Starbucks May Rethink that Free Cuppa (November 3, 2008)