YouTube prohibits misleading or deceptive election-related content that could cause serious real-world harm. This includes misinformation, manipulated media, and content that disrupts democratic processes.
Exceptions may apply for content presented in educational, documentary, scientific, artistic, or public-interest contexts.
If you encounter policy-violating content, you can report the video or channel through YouTube’s reporting tools.
Key Policy Rules for Content Creators
Do not post election-related content that includes:
Voter Suppression
Content that misleads voters about:
- Voting dates
- Polling locations
- Voting methods
- Voter eligibility requirements
False information intended to discourage or prevent voting is prohibited.
Examples:
- Claiming people can vote by text message
- Providing false election dates
- Stating fake age or eligibility restrictions
False Candidate Eligibility Claims
Content falsely claiming that political candidates or elected officials are ineligible for office based on:
- Age
- Citizenship
- Death
- Other legal qualifications
Interference with Democratic Processes
Content encouraging people to:
- Disrupt polling places
- Delay election results
- Harass election workers or voters
- Commit cyberattacks on election systems
Educational, Documentary, Scientific, or Artistic (EDSA) Exceptions
Content that would normally violate policy may remain if it clearly provides:
- Educational context
- Documentary reporting
- Scientific discussion
- Artistic or satirical commentary
Public-interest material such as:
- Campaign speeches
- Government proceedings
- Political debates
may also qualify.
However, EDSA context cannot be used simply to spread misinformation.
Related YouTube Policies
Election-related content may also violate other policies, including:
- Harassment & Cyberbullying
- Manipulated Media / Misinformation
- Violent or Graphic Content
- Impersonation
- External Harmful Links
Examples include:
- Deepfakes of political candidates
- False use of old footage as current events
- Threats toward election workers
- Links to harmful misinformation
Enforcement Actions
If content violates this policy:
- The content will be removed
- The creator will receive a warning or strike
- Policy training may be offered
- Repeated violations may result in channel termination
Strike System
- First violation: Warning
- Three strikes within 90 days: Possible channel termination
Severe or repeated abuse may lead to immediate account removal.
Important Reminder
These examples are not exhaustive. Creators are responsible for ensuring their content complies with YouTube’s Community Guidelines, including linked content within videos or descriptions.
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