The rules said no electronic devices. However they were obviously referring to things like cell phones and other things of that nature that could be used to gain an unfair advantage in a debate.
According to CNN they were told no "electronic devices (including fans)" and the organizers denied the request for a fan shown on that signature card. They also point out that fans are banned from the upcoming CNN debate
http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/16/politics/cnn-debate-fangate/index.html
Either way, Crist played Scott pretty good. Couldn't happen to a better guy