Starbucks, Krispy Kreme doughnuts, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, to name a few, have all offered incentives to voters just to vote – to do their patriotic duty.  Unfortunately, some state laws consider these incentives illegal.  Georgia, for example, has it written into their law:

“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.”

Makes me grateful that I live in the United States while making me think – some lazy ass people need an incentive to get out of bed – what’s wrong with giving them a cup of coffee for the trouble of voting, too?  Because you have to chose a party, I understand why incentivizing registration would be illegal, and I get that we can’t buy votes, but sometimes people need a kick to get them to vote – why is this so wrong?

Fortunately, Tara Darrow, spokeswoman for Starbucks, has come out to say “to ensure we are in compliance with election law, we are extending our offer to all customers who request a tall brewed coffee.”  In recognition for their effort I bought my regular drink and a bit more, too.  Thanks Starbucks for trying to do the right thing and then standing up and doing the right thing when your decision was questioned.  I don’t like everything you guys do, but agree with your decisions here.

Krispy Kreme didn’t have a statement that I could find as to how they might change things, although considering the cost of a doughnut I’m sure they will do the right thing too.  Ben & Jerry’s site simply says that everyone is getting a free scoop of ice-cream, so I guess it’s safe to say that they’re doing the right thing, too.  Thank you all.

Ranter