Can your employer fire you for running for office?

[arcane1]

I was toying around, earlier this year, with the idea of running for district supervisor. Not that I exactly think I'm qualified, but it was just a thought since I'm very much invested in that position this year.

However, it got me thinking: once I pay the fees and gather the signatures, etc, and my name starts appearing in election literature and on campaign posters all over town, is that not sending a clear message to my boss that says "I'm looking for another job"?

Could the boss then decide that, since I'm obviously not attached to this job and am openly expressing so, perhaps I should be let go? Even more so if my positions on issues could be seen as contrary to the company's position?

:shrug:

[slackmaster]

1. Mine can

YMMV

[mdmc]

2. If you are running for a f/t position talk to your boss

I know several people that ran long shot campaigns with their work's blessing.

I thought I would get fired from my non-union shop jub when I ran for city council on the working families party.

Also, so jobs bar you from seeking office (like the post office, for instance)..

[Liberal Veteran]

3. If you live in a state that has "at will" employment, they can fire you for just about anything.

[w8liftinglady]

5. exactly-which is why I have never identified my employer-or profession

in my editorials...Texas is an "At-Will" state

[Ex Lurker]

8. My employers know nothing about my religious or political beliefs, and as litte about my

personal life as I can possibly manage. I do my best to keep it that way.

[Brickbat]

4. You should check your employee handbook to see if you are an at-will employee.

If you're in a union, it might be a little different.

[arcane1]

6. I am most definitely "at will"

[Brickbat]

7. Is district supervisor a full-time position?

Maybe you could work something out.

[arcane1]

11. Pretty much, yeah

The work would definitely be during normal business hours

[Ruby the Liberal]

9. I am not allowed to hold any public position

even if it is only part time.

[sinkingfeeling]

10. I wouldn't be fired, but must resign as I work for the state.

[Kalyke]

12. Yes.

If you live in a right-to-be-fired - I mean (Propaganda Catapult on) Right To Work State - your employer can fire you at will.

[Brickbat]

13. Right to work =/= at-will employment.

A right to work (more accurately, right to scab)provision means union membership is not a requirement of employment.

At-will means a company can fire you for almost any reason, with exceptions for protected classifications, contract provisions, and so on.

[TheManInTheMac]

14. Yes, they can.

Most won't, unless the office you are running for is a full time job that would interfere with your work duties, or your campaigning interferes. Talk to your boss.