Saturday, April 21, 2012

Don't publish exit polls too early in France or it will cost you

With the first round of French voting on Sunday, it is interesting to learn that in France, there are stringent rules on publishing exit poll results before the polls have closed in the major cities like Paris, which is not until 8 p.m. Polls close in smaller towns and villages at 6 p.m. Violators risk fines of 75,000 euro (about $100,000) - some major money these days. Those subject to the fines can include social media outlets and individuals. The most fascinating part of the rules allow the candidates to challenge the vote result if the exit polling is published early and influences voters, thereby possibly invalidating an election. So, don't mess with the French election process. Oh, and by the way, not looking good for Sarkozy, Hollande is the current favorite. http://www.france24.com/en/20120419-french-elections-exit-polls-law-ban-prosecute-liberation-hollande-sarkozy

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