|
I think everyone can agree that attempts to disenfranchise voters, which has been done by both sides, is unacceptable. Regardless of the strenght of one's convictions, in a Democracy we must give people the right to vote.
The concept of allowing felons to vote is difficult. I think that while you are serving your sentence for a felony conviction, you most certainly should not have the right to vote. I think that once you have "paid your debt", this right should be restored. I think exceptions could be made for those convicted of violent crimes, multiple offenders and recidivists and for crimes against the United States, such as treason.
I have a neighbor who is 19 years old. He was driving intoxicated while his underage brother was in the car. In my state, DUI with a minor in the car is a felony. He can no longer vote. Apparently he is looking into ways to get this right restored, but it is difficult. Do we think that when this young man is 50 years old, he should still be prevented from voting?
|