What Are the Rules Around Political Text Messages?
Political texts are regulated differently from commercial texts. Here's a plain-language overview of the rules — what campaigns can and can't do, and where to check for the details.
The TCPA and political texts
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) is the main federal law governing automated texts and calls. It requires senders to get consent before sending automated texts using an autodialer, and it requires senders to honor opt-out requests. Political texts have some differences from commercial texts, but the TCPA's core consent and opt-out requirements generally still apply. The specifics depend on the type of message and how it's sent.
Consent requirements
For automated texts (texts sent using an autodialer), the sender generally needs your prior express consent. That consent can come from signing up for a campaign's messages, donating, or other interactions. However, some political texts — like those sent manually by a person rather than an autodialer — may have different consent requirements. The rules are nuanced, and the FCC's website has current guidance on what types of consent are required.
Opt-out requirements
Even if a campaign has your consent to text you, they must honor opt-out requests. Replying STOP to a political text should remove you from that sender's list. Senders are generally required to process opt-out requests promptly — usually within a short window. If a sender keeps texting after you've replied STOP, that's a potential violation worth documenting and reporting.
State laws that add protections
Some states have their own laws that add protections beyond the federal TCPA — for example, stricter consent requirements or additional rules around political robocalls and texts. State laws vary, so the rules that apply to you depend on where you live. For the most accurate and current information, check your state's consumer protection agency or attorney general's office, and the FCC's website for federal guidance.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Do campaigns need my consent to text me?
For automated texts sent using an autodialer, campaigns generally need your prior express consent. That consent can come from signing up, donating, or other interactions. Some manually-sent texts may have different rules. The specifics depend on the type of message and how it's sent — the FCC's website has current guidance.
Are political texts exempt from the Do Not Call Registry?
The Do Not Call Registry primarily blocks commercial telemarketing calls and texts. Political calls and texts have some exemptions, but the rules are nuanced. Some political robocalls and automated texts still require consent and must honor opt-out requests regardless of the registry. The FCC's website has current guidance on how the registry applies to political outreach.
What should I do if I think a campaign broke the rules?
Document the messages — including the sender, dates, and whether you opted out — and file a complaint with the FCC at fcc.gov/complaints. Include as much detail as possible. The FCC's rules around political texts are complex, so a documented record of opt-out requests and continued texts strengthens your complaint. Check the FCC's website for current guidance on what violates the rules.
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Disclaimer: CivicShield is a consumer privacy and documentation tool, not a law firm. CivicShield does not provide legal advice or guarantee a particular legal outcome. Laws and regulations vary by circumstance and jurisdiction. References to laws such as the TCPA or CAN-SPAM Act are for general informational purposes only — consult authoritative sources like the FCC and FTC for official guidance.