100 signatures reached
To: Dianne Feinstein (CA), John Fetterman (PA), Mark Kelly (AZ), Alex Padilla (CA), Gary Peters (MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chuck Schumer (NY), Tina Smith (MN), Debbie Stabenow (MI), Raphael Warnock (GA), Elizabeth Warren (MA).
If Felons Can Run, Felons Can Vote
Petition to Restore Voting Rights for All Citizens, Including Those with Felony Convictions.
I am writing to urge Congress to enact federal legislation guaranteeing the right to vote for all U.S. citizens, including those impacted by felony convictions. As recent events have shown, even individuals with felony records are eligible to serve in the highest offices of government, demonstrating that civic participation should be an inalienable right. Disenfranchisement for those with felony convictions is a significant civil rights issue, disproportionately affecting Black and Brown communities and undermining the democratic principles upon which our country was founded.
The Democracy Restoration Act (DRA), reintroduced in both the Senate and the House this year, would restore voting rights to individuals in federal elections upon release from prison. This bill aligns with the principle that the right to vote is fundamental and essential for reintegration and civic participation. Additionally, the Inclusive Democracy Act, introduced by Representative Ayanna Pressley and Senator Peter Welch, seeks to fully restore voting rights for currently incarcerated individuals. This legislation reflects the understanding that voting is a human right that strengthens community ties and supports re-entry by engaging individuals in civic duties.
It is critical that Congress act swiftly to pass these measures. I urge you to support the Democracy Restoration Act (sponsored by Sen. Ben Cardin and Rep. Jasmine Crockett) and the Inclusive Democracy Act. Enabling all citizens to vote, regardless of their past, is necessary to build a truly representative democracy.
Thank you for considering this urgent issue. I hope you will support the restoration of voting rights for all Americans.
Sincerely,
Your constituent(s).
I am writing to urge Congress to enact federal legislation guaranteeing the right to vote for all U.S. citizens, including those impacted by felony convictions. As recent events have shown, even individuals with felony records are eligible to serve in the highest offices of government, demonstrating that civic participation should be an inalienable right. Disenfranchisement for those with felony convictions is a significant civil rights issue, disproportionately affecting Black and Brown communities and undermining the democratic principles upon which our country was founded.
The Democracy Restoration Act (DRA), reintroduced in both the Senate and the House this year, would restore voting rights to individuals in federal elections upon release from prison. This bill aligns with the principle that the right to vote is fundamental and essential for reintegration and civic participation. Additionally, the Inclusive Democracy Act, introduced by Representative Ayanna Pressley and Senator Peter Welch, seeks to fully restore voting rights for currently incarcerated individuals. This legislation reflects the understanding that voting is a human right that strengthens community ties and supports re-entry by engaging individuals in civic duties.
It is critical that Congress act swiftly to pass these measures. I urge you to support the Democracy Restoration Act (sponsored by Sen. Ben Cardin and Rep. Jasmine Crockett) and the Inclusive Democracy Act. Enabling all citizens to vote, regardless of their past, is necessary to build a truly representative democracy.
Thank you for considering this urgent issue. I hope you will support the restoration of voting rights for all Americans.
Sincerely,
Your constituent(s).
Why is this important?
If a felon can be elected to office, as has been demonstrated by recent examples, it highlights the inconsistency in denying voting rights to others with similar records. It shows that individuals with criminal convictions can hold positions of leadership and public trust, which logically should extend to their right to vote and influence policy.
The right to vote is a fundamental part of democracy. Excluding felons from voting creates a two-tiered system, where some Americans are denied a voice in the decisions that affect them, even though they live and work in their communities post-incarceration. Denying felons voting rights sends a message that they are not full citizens, which undermines the principles of equality and justice.
Allowing felons to vote supports their reintegration into society by encouraging civic engagement and responsibility. Studies show that when individuals have a stake in their community, including through voting, they are more likely to contribute positively and less likely to reoffend.
The right to vote is a fundamental part of democracy. Excluding felons from voting creates a two-tiered system, where some Americans are denied a voice in the decisions that affect them, even though they live and work in their communities post-incarceration. Denying felons voting rights sends a message that they are not full citizens, which undermines the principles of equality and justice.
Allowing felons to vote supports their reintegration into society by encouraging civic engagement and responsibility. Studies show that when individuals have a stake in their community, including through voting, they are more likely to contribute positively and less likely to reoffend.
Felony disenfranchisement disproportionately impacts Black and Latino communities due to systemic issues in the criminal justice system. Restoring voting rights is a step toward addressing these racial inequities, giving historically marginalized groups a stronger voice in policies that directly affect them.
Felony disenfranchisement laws date back to post-Reconstruction efforts aimed at reducing the political power of African Americans. Ending these restrictions strengthens democracy by ensuring that all voices, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are included in the political process.
In summary, this petition advocates for fair treatment of all citizens and aligns with democratic values. Restoring voting rights to felons not only addresses inconsistencies in our political system but also promotes rehabilitation and community integration, making democracy stronger and more inclusive.