A video from Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria, D-Merced, shows her advocating for herself and the “first woman president” outside a polling place, which Fresno County Clerk James Kus said was something he’d prefer did not happen.

Soria posted the video on X, showing her voting inside and speaking outside the downtown Fresno elections office. In the video, she says this election is critical to vote for not only legislators like herself, but also for the Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris. The Fresno County District Attorney’s Office said the video does not violate any laws.

Soria’s campaign did not return a request for comment in time for publication.

“This election is so critical not just so that we can elect people like myself to continue doing the great work in the state of California but we have the opportunity to make history in this election cycle by electing the first woman president,” Soria said in the video.

I Just Voted! Casting a vote is one of the greatest privileges we have in America. It’s our voice, our choice, and our way of shaping the future.

Your vote is your voice, and it matters! pic.twitter.com/PTQKPKWVc8

— Esmeralda Soria (@Esmeralda_Soria) November 5, 2024

Video Does Not Violate Heart of Electioneering Law: DA

California election code outlines what is allowed within 100 feet of a polling place. People cannot advocate for or against measures or candidates or wear likenesses or logos. That also includes providing audible information.

While Soria’s statement could be construed as advocating for a candidate, it does not violate the heart of the law, Taylor Long, a spokeswoman for the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, said in an email.

“The laws against electioneering are designed to prevent the harassment of people who are physically present at the polling place to cast their ballot,” Long said. “There is no evidence here that the Assemblywoman tried to interact with any of the people present inside 100 feet of the polling place.”

It’s also unlikely anyone heard what Soria said, she added.

Kus said candidates are prepped ahead of any videos they make. He said candidates regularly do videos and pictures.

But, Kus said, “I would prefer individuals should not advocate for a candidate, measure, or proposition within 100 (feet) of a voting location. Elections workers will ask anyone they see advocating for a candidate within 100 (feet) of a voting location to move outside the (100-foot) prohibition.”