Republicans did very well in Florida in the midterms, winning the governorship and a senate seat. But things could be different in future elections. One of the ballot measures that passed on Tuesday will restore voting rights to over a million ex-felons.
USA Today reported:
Florida passes amendment to restore voting rights for 1.5 million felons
Florida voters on Tuesday approved Amendment 4, which says that most felons will automatically have their voting rights restored when they complete their sentences or go on probation.
The amendment restores voting rights to former felons who served their sentence, including parole and probation, with the exception of those convicted of murder and sexual offenses. Currently, former felons must wait at least 5 years after completing their sentences to ask the Florida Clemency Board, made up by the governor and the Cabinet, to restore their rights.
A U.S. district judge found Florida’s current system arbitrary and unconstitutional in March, and the case is under appeal. If passed, Amendment 4 would impact 1.5 million Floridians. Florida is one of four states that disenfranchises former felons permanently.
Democrats are always looking for ways to expand their voter rolls and many critics argue that’s what this is really all about. It could potentially have an impact on Florida in the 2020 election.
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