Felon Voting
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Last updated on: 7/30/2012 2:10:13 PM PST

Should felons be allowed to vote?

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  • +59 +103 -44 Kerry Apr. 27, 2011
    "I believe that a felony conviction alone should not preclude your right to vote. However, I do believe that the person who committed the felony should be completely free of all legal obligations (released, completed parole, paid all fines and fees). You are not going to tell me that it is the case where the convicted felon at age 18 holds the same reasoning and judgement when they are now age 35 (barring servious mental illness)? Who among us would stand up to that litmus? I believe once a person has completely served his 'time' and FULLY PAID his 'debt to society', that he has 'earned' his right to vote."
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    • +1 +5 -4 Cesar May. 11, 2011
      "Uhmm...I can stand up and proudly say that I've never committed a FELONY. At the age of 16 I enlisted in the Army. At the age of 21 I was honorably discharged and paid my own way through college and I'm now a small business owner.
      Maybe you should set the standards MUCH higher. Do the morally right thing and nothing bad, like going to prison and having certain rights taken away, will happen to you. It is common sense."
    • 0 0 0 Bryce Apr. 18, 2013
      "How about those who committed a Felony but were never caught?"
    • 0 +1 -1 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "Re: Bob,
      I'm an ex-con, but per your example, you are entirely correct.
      You see, I believe in the death penalty. Not only do I believe in the death penalty, but I believe that for crimes of that nature, rape, child molestation, murder, terrorism, etc. the American people should not have to 'pay' to keep scum like that in a cell. All it would take is less than a quarter. One bullet to the head.
      Prisons, where I went to for a while, should only be for felons that can or could be rehabilitated, not for those that will never or should never, ever, be released.
      Sure, everyone does make mistakes, and everyone does deserve to be forgiven... but that's between God & them.

      Second chances, now, that's for those that really work hard as hell for it..."
    • 0 0 0 tay Jun. 11, 2012
      "what she saying is very much right. everyone always talks about how we all deserve second chances. Theres a reason for EVERYTHING! so who are yall to juge the for what they may have done. it doesnt concern those who believe that they right should be taken away! there humans to with the same exact feelings!"
    • -6 0 -6 Bob Jan. 23, 2012
      "So if a criminal murders someone, how is he supposed to pay that? Going to prison is a punishment, yes, but he isn't paying squat."
  • +44 +57 -13 Carrie Feb. 18, 2012
    "I can proudly say that I am an Ex Felon and that I have changed my life completely. I learned from my past and that is exactly what it is~~THE PAST.. I am not going to say that all change because that would not be telling the truth BUT the majority do. Yes, there are the ones that become institutionalized and that is when the gates become revolving. Sadly, some of you who are opposing the right for felons to vote never had to live through what we did however I am quite sure that 99.9% of you have also committed a felony but just never got caught doing so. So, you never know when your day may come to serve that time and be branded for the rest of your life and lose your rights; then maybe you will know what it feels like. I know it won't happen to you. I believe that I deserve my right to vote back. I served my prison term, I am currently paying my fines, and I am a full time student as well. I have read a lot of these comments and frankly I feel like this: If I can not vote due to my past mistakes (because no one knows why I done what I did) then I believe that all these politicians that have gotten caught up with DUI'S should also be disenfranchised from serving on Congress, Senate, or wherever it be. The law is the law~Correct?"
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    • +2 +2 0 Tom Sep. 13, 2012
      ""Sadly, some of you who are opposing the right for felons to vote never had to live through what we did however I am quite sure that 99.9% of you have also committed a felony but just never got caught doing so."

      Carrie, I agree with you 100%. The felony net is a lot wider than most people realize. It is not just for car thieves, bank robbers or murders anymore, a lot of stupid stuff can get you slapped with a felony - things that many don't even realize are felonies. I think its enough that the "felon" went to jail. They should not be denied firearm rights or voting rights for life simply because they are a "felon"."
    • +1 +1 0 steven Oct. 8, 2012
      "You bring up a very valid point, our elected officials should not be aloud to serve if felons can't vote then they shouldn't be aloud to serve."
    • 0 0 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "RE:Teresa:
      Look Teresa, maybe his wording was off, but you are either a hypocrite, a liar, or both if you think that you have never broken a law. Just like the Bible says, we have all sinned.
      Fyi, if you have ever driven even one mile per hour over the speed limit, then you are a breaker of law. And in some areas, if you have gone over the speed limit by a considerable margin, even 15 mph in some areas, it is considered reckless driving and it is a felony. So, go tell your lies or half truths to someone else.
      Everyone has broken a law in the U.S. including me, I am not an exception. lol"
    • -2 0 -2 Teresa Oct. 9, 2012
      "I can say proudly that I am neither an ex or current felon, and your assumptuion that "we" have all commited felonies and just not gotten caught is WRONG! I have never been caught because I have never commited, so please explain to me how you have earned your rights, also explain how you being an ex-felon should have the same rights as a person that never commited a felony? I am glad that you have change your life, good for you,but I have always followed the law. I believe that your time in prison was re-paying the debt you created, but the right to vote to make decisions that affect me - well you gave that up when you proved you couldn't make wise decisions for your future. Should it be restorable? After you have re-paid all that it cost the tax payers for your trial,incarseration and repay the victim to what ever degree is deemed acceptable. I do agree with your comment about the DUI commited by members of congress and the senate."
    • -2 +1 -3 Mike Laughlin Aug. 10, 2012
      "That's great news. There are only a few things you will not be able to achieve and do for the rest of your life. One is voting. Suggest you move on."
  • +28 +45 -17 Dana Lafreniere Nov. 8, 2011
    "When A felon gets out of prison and pays their debt to society, goes to get a job and collects a weekly paycheck the state and federal government clearly do not take their ability to pay taxes away. So then assuming that their are millions of tax paying felons, why shouldn't they be allowed to vote? If you take away the right to vote then don't ask the person who can't vote for tax money."
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  • +24 +33 -9 Eugene Feb. 9, 2012
    "I feel convicts should be allowed to vote. If you have served your time give he or she back there lives."
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    • 0 0 0 mich Nov. 4, 2012
      "thanks for me it's been alife sentence"
    • 0 0 0 victoria May. 31, 2012
      "eugene I feel like ypu do think of all the judges pres and other elected officials that have done wrong but what happens they draw a federal check and get judicial diverison how is that for legal??"
  • +20 +27 -7 Gerri Ruddock Feb. 29, 2012
    "Yes! I believe felons should have the right to vote.Laws are forever changing making it easier to be charged as a felon.This makes less people availiable to vote,if we say felons cannot vote."
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  • +19 +29 -10 Bryce Feb. 21, 2012
    "A felon "deserves punishment". That's fine, until the day they are released. At that point the tables turn: this individual will be part of our society. They may live next door. They may have kids. Their kids may be in our schools. I want every free adult person to be "in" the political system, not "out".

    I'm not at all concerned that a coalition of felons would pass unreasonable laws. Fortunately there are not that many felons, and they are not a homogeneous enough group. Voting, while important in a democracy, has limited power. The harmful thinking of a few 'bad' ex-convicts will be swamped out by the votes of other citizens. There's more good than harm to be had by enfranchising ex-convicts."
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    • 0 0 0 Bryce Apr. 18, 2013
      "@LoudAmerican : a single drug addict in a pharmacy can do harm. Single voters don't have that power. If we have so many ex-Felons that they constitute a voting block, we're likely locking up too many people."
    • 0 +1 -1 victoria May. 31, 2012
      "Btyce some of my best freinds are cons at least you can trust them unlike the judges that pass sentences on people while thwe==ey themselfs are on drugs check out judge baugargener in knoxville tn hows that for justice"
    • -1 0 -1 @LoudAmerican Apr. 15, 2013
      "so with that manner of thinking - you sound as though you would trust a drug addict as pharmaceutical dispensary employee as well? Why put a sick person in a position to favorably change laws to their own beliefs?"
  • +17 +28 -11 Katie Jan. 27, 2012
    "I teach adult female felons full time and have for the last 5 1/2 years. Many of these women are young, intelligent, thoughtful people who have made stupid mistakes. Often they are imprisoned on minor drug charges that are in themselved debatable. Permantly denying these women the right devote not only deprives them of their democratic rights; it more importantly keeps them from buying into the system we want them to live under. We want them to be responsible, law-abiding citizens, and yet we refuse to allow them one of the primary symbols of responsible, adult citizenship."
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    • 0 0 0 @LoudAmerican Apr. 15, 2013
      "although I am against allowing a felon to vote - I must commend you on your approach! Well articulated.

      However; what you are saying is not literal for ALL felons - what filter is available to protect against a felon willing alter the laws and to disregard the law a second time?"
  • +17 +52 -35 Eitan Apr. 27, 2011
    "Of course Felons should have the right vote! Amendment 15 article 1 says 'The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.' That means all people - no matter what!"
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    • +3 +4 -1 Issa Sep. 22, 2011
      "I believe when they wrote that they weren't thinking some Joe Schmoe was going to go out there and murder countless woman then turn around and demand to be able to vote. But that's fine right...The next time you vote on a law pertaining to the safety of our children just think of all the possible sex offenders who "could have" been voting against you."
    • +3 +4 -1 pat riot Jun. 16, 2011
      "it meansyou cant deny someone the right to vote based on their etnicity or wether or not they were slaves.those are conditions a person cant change about themselves.
      while i agree that felons should be able to vote, you must realize commiting a felony is a choice- skin color or being a former slave is not.
      the 15th ammendment says that no citizen will be denied the vote for things they have no control over. if it meant all people then it would have to include illegal aliens and children"
    • +3 +4 -1 James Apr. 30, 2011
      "well they are not allowed to own a gun. Amendment 2 says the right of the 'people' to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. You don't have to even be a citizen just a person"
    • +1 +1 0 Rico Feb. 9, 2012
      "But this isnt about race or color this is about crimes that felons have done and cant take back and thats why they cant vote because in prison there is no freedom but punish ment for what you have done."
    • 0 0 0 Ian Mar. 11, 2013
      "Congress has ruled that this does not include those with felony convictions."
    • 0 0 0 James Dec. 12, 2011
      "Actually Eitan it means all "citizens" can vote, not all "people", and yes it can be taken away."
  • +16 +31 -15 Mike Oct. 29, 2011
    "I believe that restricting their right to vote while in prison is an essential part of their punishment. But after they have completed their sentence they should be allowed to participate in voting. If they have paid their debt to society then why should they continue to be punished? They already have to deal with getting hired with a criminal record."
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    • -1 +1 -2 James Nov. 21, 2011
      "so they should be allowed to own guns too right?"
  • +14 +32 -18 Robert Oct. 17, 2011
    "Rights and responsibities go hand in hand. How can you demand people to obey their responsibilities to soceity if they can not enjoy their rights?

    Ex-felons pay tax and like any citizen have a right to say how their money is spent. No taxation without representation.

    In Ireland (where I'm from) not only can former prisoners vote, but so can current ones. People don't seem to realise that 80% of prisoners are serving sentances of one year or less for non violent crimes. Most are in prison for non payment of debt, not for murder.

    Also the idea that prisoners would vote to make their crimes legal is completely ridiculous which is obvious if you give the idea some thought."
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  • +10 +16 -6 Rayeann May. 17, 2012
    "Felons should be allowed to vote once they are released from prison. Everyone makes mistakes and they just made a bigger one. Released felons are still members of society and should be allowed to help decide on issues that include them. Just because they are felons doesn't mean that they can't think logically about isssues that effect all of society."
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  • +8 +12 -4 AK Jul. 3, 2012
    "Once a felon completes their entire sentence or probation, felons should have their rights back."
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  • +8 +13 -5 Mara Jun. 9, 2012
    "Not allowing people with felony records to vote is not only a breach of civil rights, it amounts to sanctioned racism and classism. Felony convictions are overwhelmingly against people of color and the poor (see Michele Alexander's "The New Jim Crow), not because more of this population commits crimes, but because they are in neighborhoods targeted by law enforcement and cannot afford the legal representation that would reduce or void their sentence. While a new method of controlling, disempowering and silencing these populations may not have been the original intent, it is unconstitutional that someone can lose their right to choose their government representation because they have not been able to pay or litigate their way out of an unjust system. In our country, more money = more justice, and until that changes, taking away someone's right to vote because of a conviction is one more way of handing power to the wealthy and silencing the poor."
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  • +8 +18 -10 anthony cronin Apr. 5, 2012
    "This the way i look at it and yes im a convicted felon i was so stupid when i was 18 im now 31 and have but long time ago payed back my dues to society for my wrongs but think about it this way for amin if im supposed to get out and move foward with my life and be a productive citizen of my coummunity then shouldnt i be aloowed to vote on the laws and lawmakers of my coumminty but know i dont even have a say so in the matter so how am i supposed to live some were i dont even have a say so on the way things are ran in my communityor my country"
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  • +8 +21 -13 MILI Jan. 29, 2012
    "I SAY YES, WE Should be allowed to vote, I am a tax paying, productive member of society today, I made mistakes 12 years ago, today I have changed my life around. I say If I'm good enough to pay taxes I'm good enough to vote!!"
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  • +8 +19 -11 LaWanda Jan. 26, 2012
    "I think that the laws pertaining to felons should change.They are antiquated and outdated.We still have to pay taxes.The laws of the land still apply to us.So why shouldnt we have a say about them?This will obviously have a large impact on the African American community.If a person is a non violent one time offender after a number of years have passed they should be allowed to vote,carry a handgun,and hold a job that requires certification and licensing.I think that a felons for equality march is just the thing.If everyone with a felony marched on Washington,that would get some attention.How are you considered a non citizen,and still have to pay taxes?If all the people with felonies stopped paying taxes what would happen?Its time to speak out on this .And demand some justice and equality for felons that have paid their debts to society."
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  • +8 +17 -9 Jim Morris Jan. 17, 2012
    "Perhaps we should take the right to vote from anyone who breaks the law even speeding; after all, they are not trustworthy either. I believe if a person commits a crime is punished then that should be the end of their punishment... No one in America has never NOT violated at least some law, and today there are so many laws you could be violating one and not even know it.
    Americans and our politicians need to be a bit more realistic and forgiving. America has more people in prison right now than any other Nation including Russia. We need to give all of those prisoners a fair chance to start a new life without crime when they get out. As it stands now when they get out no one will hire them so what choice do we give them?"
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    • +1 +1 0 Rhonda Shonk Jan. 17, 2012
      "you can become a felon for signing a form that says your child resides at another district so they can go to a better school, that is called tampering with records and is a 3rd degree felony, should this person according to some never have the right to vote again, because some judge wanted to make her pay? It does not take much to become a felon, it can and does happen to anyone!"
  • +8 +26 -18 phillip May. 27, 2011
    "felons must pay taxes so their voice should be heard ."
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    • +3 +3 0 Patrick Jul. 9, 2011
      "This is really one of the smartest comments on here. Not all the people quoting things from parts of the constitution that they have never read, or making the very broad statement that any right in the bill of rights or the constitution applies to every one everywhere. Even the amendment banning slavery says its is ok as a punishment for a crime. I'm getting of track here though, this comment is the best because one of the main reasons our forefathers rebelled against England because of taxation with out representation. That is truly an American value. I think this is one of the best argument on here, and I do NOT think that felons should have the right to vote. At least not right away I think it should be based on the offense, and once the have served their sentence there should be a long waiting period to see if the "keep their nose clean". Then and only then should the get the right back."
  • +8 +32 -24 TEEMOMA Apr. 29, 2011
    "I vote yes. After an individual has served their time and debt to society in the world of the United States of America by either incarceration and/or monetary means. Following paying their debt to society an individual should be free to return back to the rights of being a lawful abiding citizen. Furthermore, we know that our criminal justice system is an unfair system so this decision mainly effects minorities verses those individuals who have the finances for private defense counsel and a fair judicial system for all Americans regardless of one's background, race, ethnicity, religion,etc."
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  • +7 +10 -3 Anonymous Sep. 13, 2012
    "Tax Payer should = American Voter"
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  • +7 +15 -8 Pat Mar. 16, 2012
    "If the criteria for voting is citizenship alone, as stated in the Constitution, there is no legal basis to deny it that would survive a 14th Amendment challenge of equal protection [by humans], not companies or organizations.

    The right to incarcerate can be abused; we do not judge mental incompetents except by age or evidence based mental defects for anyone else. This is beyond the power of states, or Congress, the Supreme court, or the President to deny based upon their judgment or their whim. It is the rule of men, not of law. Paying a penalty to society has little to do with citizenship except that it proves citizenship and subjecting oneself to law logically created, and logically enforced. Bad behavior cannot alter right to be citizen; only death can alter citizenship once born."
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  • +7 +14 -7 cyberscan Mar. 14, 2012
    "I am putting together a social video media campaign for the automatic restoration of all right for those who have completed their sentences. I need people who are willing to supply personal information such as achievements and are willing to briefly state those achievements on video and then state, "I'm a tax payer, but I am not allowed to vote."

    I need people who make these videos to be clean cut, respectful, and appealing. The idea is to use the video clips from 20 people. I plan to blitz the re-election cycle for my state. I don't want to name this state since that will give the opposition time to prepare. Citizens who made mistakes and did their time should enjoy ALL of the same rights as other citizens."
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    • 0 0 0 Brenda Nov. 6, 2012
      "does this include being able to carry and possess a fire arm again? I mean I get into trouble once in my life and I'm punished forever!? does not make any since.."
  • +7 +18 -11 Rhonda Shonk Jan. 17, 2012
    "I have been moved by this issue because it now effect my life! I am 55 year old female and had no criminal or juvy record, but one year ago I found myself in trouble, stealing money from the job I had for over 20 years to help someone in deperate trouble, it was wrong so wrong and I paid a very heavy price, although the money was less then 5,000 I also tampered with records, the judge sent me to prison for a year and I am now on probation, I made one mistake does this mean I am no longer capable of making rational, good choices? I raised 2 children and put them both through college, was PTA president and have worked all my life. I just happen to have a judge who hates white collar crime, so I paid the price! To hear now that I am no longer worthy to vote, hurts me deeply. I have voted all my life. No one knows why I did what I did, this person I felt had no other options, and yes I regret it more than I can say, but it's over, I paid the money back and did a year in prison, lost my job, I feel I have paid my debt in full!"
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  • +6 +8 -2 Arby Sep. 11, 2012
    "Displaying "poor judgment" should not prevent one from voting. If judgment was a requirement, most US Americans would be excluded..."
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  • +6 +8 -2 Angel Sanchez Sep. 9, 2012
    "I have turned my life around after being convicted as an adult when I was 16, however, I cannot vote even after I complete my probation of 10 year, because in Florida, the Governor requires that I have to wait at least 5 years to apply for clemency and many years after that for a decision. Today I am an Honor Student in Valencia College (Orlando, Florida) despite living in a homeless shelter and holding a part-time job for over a year; I mentor other GED homeless students who aspire to attend college someday; and yet, every election I am reminded that despite all my efforts, I will be a political outcast for most of my life due to Florida's disenfranchisement laws. Lastly, the restoration process in Florida is so long and cumbersome (to apply, process, and approve) that it seems that it is in place more to give a false sense of hope than to actually restore a person back into the social fabric of the county; even if I after successfully completing 10 years of probations, I will have to wait at least 7 years after that to BEGIN the application process for restoration."
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  • +6 +8 -2 Felicia Christian Jul. 10, 2012
    "As convicted felon who hasnt gotten into any trouble since my release in 1997 I feel my right to vote should be restored. How long do I have to pay for my mistake. I did my time and since I got out I have been gainfuly employed. My biggest issue no is due to the economy my past is keeping me from getting a job. Most jobs now ask have you ever been convicted of a crime. Even thought my charge is so old I still have to check that box. If a person hasnt been in trouble for 3 or more years you shouldnt have to anwser that question and you should be able to vote.As soon as you you get out and get a job you have to pay taxes voting should be the same. If I cant vote then I should have to pay taxes either. I read some of the arguments and some of them said felones shouldnt be able to help create laws by voting then we shouldnt have to help by for them either. I made some mistakes I did my time all I is the right to vote get a job that will allow me to support myself.
    My past is my past. I try not to let it hinder my future. But not being able to vote or get a job leaves me with few options."
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  • +6 +9 -3 Todd May. 13, 2012
    "You get precisely the Democracy you deserve when you discourage or prevent people from participating in it."
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  • +6 +10 -4 Brittany May. 6, 2012
    "No one can be the voice of all people, but one can assume that those just released from lengthy prison sentences are some of the most vulnerable people in our society. They must start from the ground up and get themselves back on their feet, with all odds against their success. In my belief, restricting a person's rights at such a fragile time may do more harm than good. Voting promotes civic duty amongst a nation, and voting may be the link for connecting a person in such a situation back into their community. By not allowing a person who is trying to become a better citizen to participate in one of the single most democratic rights that promotes nationalism and strength in communities is essentially like kicking someone when they're down. Instead we should be promoting their participation within the government, something that strengthens social ties and commitment to the common good of society by allowing all felons, once they have paid their debt to society, to vote in national, state, and local elections."
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  • +6 +9 -3 Carrie Apr. 24, 2012
    "I agree with Kerry based on my experience qwith working with ex-cons. In our society many people are being convicted of felonies that are unjust convictions. Also once time has been served, they should have the right to move forward in their lives. Finally I would not allow inmates or people who have had felony convictions from more than one time period (repeat offenders) to vote."
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  • +6 +14 -8 Maegan Feb. 1, 2012
    "I felony can be as little as having cash on you while stealing something. It's considered "burglary" at that point witch IS indeed a felony. Why should there rights be taken away for something as silly as that? Many bad choices are made in the early stages of adult hood."
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    • -2 0 -2 Rico Feb. 9, 2012
      "but what if they are an adult and what if they murder some one because something "silly" like that rarely happens."
  • +6 +15 -9 Steve Piper Jan. 26, 2012
    "Excluding large numbers of persons from participating in our democratic processes destroys democracy, and would eventually undermine the stability of our union."
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  • +6 +13 -7 shreda Jan. 13, 2012
    "After someone has served their time (paid their debt to society) they should have the right to vote. If we want these individuals to become productive citizens we have to encourage them to play an active role in society."
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  • +6 +17 -11 Nico Jan. 12, 2012
    "I believe they should be allowed to vote. the reason is because everyone has the right to vote. but i think they need to pay all the fines they owe and other stuff like that!"
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  • +6 +19 -13 Allegedly Dave Dec. 2, 2011
    "RE: "Now why would we, as citizens, as non-felon citizens, want felons helping to pick our representatives. If you're a convicted felon, convicted of a violent crime, you have bad judgment. Why do we want people with that judgment picking our representatives?" - June 26, 2006, Tucker Carlson

    I'd like to point out to Tucker and those of his ilk that "poor judgment" is not a characteristic exclusive to felons. Many idiots vote (RE: 2004 Presidential election). The law grants the right to vote to citizens... not intelligent citizens, not citizens with better judgement. Citizens. We should all have a say in our system and those that have been abused by it should be permitted to have a proper voice. Remember, there are many harmless felons out there. Making a fake ID is considered a felony in some states, as is having even a single gram of marijuana. Should such people be denied their legal rights over a conviction as petty as these offenses? I think not."
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  • +6 +17 -11 Grandview Investigat Oct. 31, 2011
    "I totally think felons should be able to vote. Laws are bought and paid for all the time and many times, these are garbage laws meant for your average individual to fall into so the state makes money. Lives are ruined and to take away their voting rights is outrageous. When these courts and lawmakers start doing their jobs correctly and convictions are real, then maybe I would consider it. But I dont see it happening as they are far too greedy and ignorant, so until then, let people freaking vote."
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    • 0 +1 -1 Jessica Nov. 8, 2011
      ""Well why give them the right to vote? Didn't they break the law? I mean look at the situation. They should blame themselves for making the wrong choice. Honestly it shows they haven't thought ahead of time before they committed the crime. I totally understand what Amendment 15 states but it's wrong to allow felons/ex-felons to vote. Look I'm only a sophomore & I think it's UNNECESSARY to let it slide by. When people stop committing crimes & do what they are suppose to do then I'll consider it. Some people need to grow up & realize the things they are doing to themselves & others."
  • +6 +15 -9 cindy Oct. 30, 2011
    "I feel the disenfranchisement. I too have an opinion about political issues, economic issues but because I was disenfranchised from society in so many ways, I have a tendency to speak frankly only to myself. Perhaps everyone should be tested for their mental compentence."
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  • +6 +22 -16 robert Aug. 30, 2011
    "Well lets see George Washingtonalong with most of our founding fathers owend slaves, that in it self is poor judgement. George W. Bush admitted to using cocain, possession of a controlled substance, The law in the state of Texas says this is an A Felony The Texas Health and Safety Code sets the possession law, dividing controlled substances into five penalty groups, plus a marijuana category. While some of the substances are legal prescription drugs, it is illegal to possess them without a rightful prescription, and the Texas health code establishes the punishments for illegal possession.
    Penalty Group
    Examples of Drugs/Controlled Substances
    1
    Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, GHB, ketamine, oxycodone and hydrocodone.
    Penalty Group 1
    ClassificationWeight:Less than one gram

    Penalty: State jail felony
    180 days to 2 years in a state jail and/or a fine of not more than $10,000 was that poor judgement as an adult
    though he was able to vote and be the president.
    My sons felony was for a drunken fight when he was 18 he is now 35. and still can not vote. Something shold be done about it. I have already wrote to my congress, I never got a reply."
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    • +2 +2 0 jody Jan. 24, 2012
      "Yes you're point is well taken. Not everyone gets caught that does something illegal. And then if you are famous then no worries there either. It's really not a fair system, but then ....."
    • +2 +2 0 Rhonda Shonk Jan. 17, 2012
      "Rush Limbaugh had more illegal pain killers in his possesion then most of us can imagine, yet not felony for him, no time in prison, it is very easy for some to judge when they get away with it because of money, I spent one year in prison for taking less then 5,000, paid in back, all fines paid for , never in trouble one day in my life and I am now 55, but sometimes cicumstance make us do things we normally would never do. I now am a felon, used to be PTA president, so now I should not be allowed to vote according to some. I always pray that no one they love ever has to go through what I went through. I had a judge who wanted to make an example out of me, and he did!"
  • +6 +28 -22 Patsy Handy May. 2, 2011
    "I think that when felons has paid their debts to society, they should be allowed to vote if they wish to do so. It follows them for the rest of their lives, hard for them to get jobs, go to school in some cases. Some had this incident when they were young people. Now, thirty years later, they are still paying for that mistake. And the thought that since they are "felons" they don't know how to make a good choice when it comes to voting is totally crazy. I don't think that they could do a worse job than some of the voters today that have never had that title of a felon. So, where do I sign up for the felons get their chance to cast a vote if they wish to vote."
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  • +6 +31 -25 james Apr. 29, 2011
    "any one can get felony now adays ,if the felon pays the price .he should be restored."
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    • -1 0 -1 Jessica Middleton Jan. 18, 2012
      "why, even if you have payed the price, why should we give your right back. besides they have not only committed a crime but a felony that is the highest crime in the united states. so i believe that no person that ever has committee a felony should be allowed to vote. FELONY = NO VOTE"
    • -3 +1 -4 stacey Apr. 29, 2011
      "Exactly...pay the price and you can vote again!"
  • +5 +6 -1 Jaymee Oct. 3, 2012
    "I believe they should be allowed to vote once they have completed their sentence. I have met many people with felony convictions that are more responsible and more aware of the political issues than most other people. They lost their rights for a while and they take them seriously. Once they do their time, then they should be treated as equals."
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  • +5 +20 -15 Vikki May. 24, 2011
    "Currently incarcerated felons should not be able to vote. Howerver, once a person has served their time they have paid their debt and should be allowed to vote. By restricting felons from voting, we are essentially disenfranchising too many young African American men."
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  • +4 +4 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
    "I'm an ex-con from Florida. I got in trouble when I was barely 18 years old & I've been a model citizen for over 20 yrs now. I hold two State Endorsed Certifications/Licenses, & own three businesses, but I still can't vote?
    You say don't do the crime if we don't want to lose our right to vote? Dude, I had no idea what Civil Rights were back then. I was too young to vote & I had no idea I could lose my 'birth rights' being an American!
    To quote our (dumb @$$) governor:
    "If we believe people have paid their debt to society, then that debt should be considered paid in full, and their civil rights should in fact be restored. By granting ex-offenders the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, we restore their ability to be gainfully employed, as well as their dignity."
    I'm sure saying that gave him a bad taste in his mouth, cause he changed his mind a few months later & now I have to wait longer! Bureaucratic bull$h!t!"
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  • +4 +4 0 Hilary Dec. 3, 2012
    "So many of those against felons rights to vote want to point to felons being untrustworthy as justification for stipping a citizen of their basic rights. Let me ask a question. Is there any person that can tell me they have never told a lie? By definition then, are you a liar? For the rest of your life should your word never be taken as true, because you once lied? I think it is unjust to peg someone as a "felon" for the rest of their life. Denying them one of their basic RIGHTS as a citizen is further perpetuating the criminal behavior. People subscribe to the labels placed on them, that is basic sociology. A person who does not pay taxes or has not paid their taxes has every right to vote, as stated in the constitution. These people are not paying the government and supporting the system. How are their rights more important? Felons count for representation, and can even run for congress. If they count for representation of their state shouldn't their vote count? Voting is a right and a choice that does not have a wrong answer. There is no right and wrong when it comes to voting."
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  • +4 +25 -21 Mary H. Moore Apr. 29, 2011
    "I whole-heartedly support the right of felons to have the power of voting as the Constitution provides for them too. In addition to that, once someone has made amends for the crimes they have committed, or have paid the price by being locked up in prison for however long judgment gave them, they should then be free indeed. We are not really free if we cannot exercise the right to vote, which all U.S. citizens have. The only way one does not have the right to vote is if one is not a citizen. Does imprisonment strip felons of their citizenship? No. Thus why strip them or continue to deprive them of their right to vote. As long as we bar felons from voting, we are holding them to a sentence that they have already paid for.

    We are keeping felons in prison in a very worst way. We also tell them that they are not good enough to be incorporated back into the society they breached yet paid the price for. When people have served their time for wrongs they have done, the best way I feel they can be encouraged not to repeat the offenses they indulged in is to steer them in the right direction by extending them their full citizenship rights - the right to vote. Otherwise, they are still outsiders (outlaws to the or crude)."
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    • +2 +4 -2 James Apr. 30, 2011
      "they should have there voteing rights stripped for the same reason they have there gun rights stripped. and you don't have to be a citizen to own a gun"
  • +3 +3 0 Taylor Nov. 13, 2012
    "I am a felon. I commited the crime at age 19 and am now 23. My felony has cost me many hardships in life. The ability to vote is perhaps one of the most unreasonable i have suffered. I made a mistake and paid my dues for it. I love this country understand whats going on and through my knowledge have formed opinions. i would love to be able to vote and through doing so maybe make a difference to better this country. What harm would it do to let felons vote? it is easier for an illegal alien to vote for the next president than it is for me being a felon. so ask yourself, whats worse, a felon who has served his time and paid his restitution to have a say in what goes on in his country or some person from another country which by the way is commiting a felony just by being on our soil to walk up to the polling places and cast his vote on issues to which he has no right to have a say in. I mean really think about it."
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  • +3 +4 -1 nobody Oct. 9, 2012
    "Disenfranchisement: it would be wrong to deny voting rights after a served sentence. Arguably: voting should even be allowed during parole, especially due to insanely long sentences often seen in USA penal system. So who is taken next? In his book Three Felonies a Day, civil-liberties lawyer Harvey Silverglate estimates that the average person unknowingly breaks at least three federal criminal laws every day. Also: 86% of american prisoners are incarcerated as result of a victimless crime. Arrested by sociopath cops, and portfolio handed off to a public prosecutor for "processing". Many unfortunate americans will never be "free again", even after completion of sentence ordered by the judge. After the court orderrd defense attorney has walked away after closing arguments, there will be no one to speak on behalf of these citizens.How many americans have an arrest record? 45 millions."
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  • +3 +5 -2 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
    "I do believe in a way that felons should have their right to vote after they did all the requirements that the judge has giving them. But if they are a repete offender then no they should not be alowed to vote. In some states it is a felony to be behind in child support by losing jobs that our government allows to be outsourced to foriegn countries.. WOW if thats what you call fair what kind of world are we living in..."
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  • +3 +5 -2 Erica Sep. 13, 2012
    "Not every felon is a violent offender. I have a non violent felony. It's a felony for marijuana...sad enough to say here in Kansas...but they took my right to vote away. When I asked if I could vote my probation officer gave me a look I can't even describe. She told me she had never been asked that before. Here everybody has violent felonies, murder, rape, theft, kidnapping. Not me...why should I have my right to vote taken from me when I did nothing to harm nobody? I am not a stupid person. I enjoy politics I was 18 when I got arrested I am 20 years old now and will not be able to vote in my first presidential election that I would have been allowed to do and I am absolutely devastated. (OBAMA ! ! ! ! ! !)

    Anyways, I believe that having a non violent felony should not prevent you from the law taking your right to vote away, I think that is ridiculous and unfair. For all you probably "republicans" who say a felony is "murder, breaking and entering, and more serious than a misdemeanor, no, its not always that way, think about it a little more...stop the one way mind set and open up a little bit and think about others and not just about yourself."
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  • +3 +5 -2 Jay Sep. 4, 2012
    "Yes! Yes! Yes! There are 5.85 million people barred from voting. This is the size of a Country. New Zealand has less than 4 mil. Therefore, the government is excluding votes relevant to an entire country. This Country consists primary of Africans, Latino's, Mexicans, Puerto Rican etc. Besides the punishment is imprisonment, nothing to do with precluding voting rights."
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  • +3 +12 -9 Scott Jan. 21, 2012
    "Non violent Felons should be granted the right to vote. Period. The courts hand out Felonies without a second thought and they do so by the hundreds of thousands. Think about that.....sooner or later, there will be NOONE to vote. The Politicians will continue to rule the country with little to no regard for their constituents."
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  • +3 +10 -7 Renee in Cincy Jan. 19, 2012
    "Did these individuals stop being US citizens? What does their crime have to do with their citizenship and their rights as a citizen of the USA. If they cannot vote, why should they pay taxes to a country that no longer recognizes them as one of its people.

    A country that claims its constitution is based upon the holy bible, has found a verse that says they have power over another person's redemption above God. I thank God it is not true although many have tried and may God forgive them because if he felt as proponent of this crap, many people would be suffering for their sins, including me."
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  • +3 +10 -7 Erica Lynn Jan. 17, 2012
    "I believe that felons should be allowed to vote because they are still American citizens, and that is a right that is protected in the 15th Amendment of the Constitution. Some might say that it doesn't matter, but it really does. They could be voting for something to change when they get out of jail/prison or voting to protect their loved ones outside of the prison gates."
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  • +3 +11 -8 Louie in NM Jan. 12, 2012
    "I am a convicted felon that has repaid my debt to society. i spent 3 years in prison in which I participated in and successfully completed an extensive 15 month drug and corrective behavior full time program. I also started college in prison and completed when i got out as well as almost losing my family. i feel I have paid my debt to society and am saddened that I cannot vote. I, as a felon agree that felons must not own fire arms ( I have never owned one) but other rights that have been taken from me permanently such as voting make me feel less than acceptable in society. I strongly feel I should be treated with the same respect and courtesy as I am expected to treat my fellow citizens."
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    • +1 +2 -1 Rhonda Shonk Jan. 17, 2012
      "I know how you feel, I am also saddened, and have paid all fines and fees in full. I am still on probation but will be off this summer, it hurts me deeply because I made one mistake in my lifetime and it cost me more than I can say, if people only knew how little it took to become a felon (non-violent) they would be truly amazed and perhaps not so judgemental!"
  • +3 +14 -11 Bob Hanson Jan. 5, 2012
    "I feel that whatever criminal status you should have the right to voice your opinion on any topic of interest to the person. it is a given right and should not be compromised."
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  • +3 +11 -8 Rick Dec. 25, 2011
    "What part of "paid their debt" don't people understand?
    All fines, restitution and incarceration terms have been met"
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  • +3 +14 -11 Carolyn Wheeler Oct. 26, 2011
    "They have paid their debt to society and should have their rights reinstated. The really bad guys won't take advantage of it anyway."
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  • +3 +16 -13 tay Oct. 24, 2011
    "I believe felons should be able to vote."
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  • +3 +18 -15 Brian Aug. 31, 2011
    "If your an american citizen and you pay taxes then you should have the right to vote not if ands or buts about it. If you believe ootherwise then your not an american and i also believe in the right to bare arms..How do you think this country got started"
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    • -1 +1 -2 Scott Jan. 21, 2012
      "You Sir are a Great American!!"
  • +2 +2 0 oak Apr. 7, 2013
    "my personal view on this is yes. im alittle more extreme I believe that even in jail felons should be allowed to vote on what happens in our countrie in or out of jail.while some might argue someones judgment is to impaired to be legally allowed to vote. does that allow us to stop people who are highly undereducated or mentally handicapped from voting in the election.wouldn't you also consider there judgement impaired.also the reason I think felons should be able to vote in prision is because they have an entirely different view of society from people who have never commited a crime.a person who has been through the criminal justice system may know more then someone who was never exposed in the first place and i'd like to here there views in jail on the next election. by the way not all people convicted of a felonly have impaired judgement there are several types of felonys from as low as a type E felonly to as high as a type A.sigh my point is while I don't necessarily agree with everyones view points who vote in or out of prison. I will fight to defend your rights to voice your oppions in jail or not.even in prison you are still a citizen of the us in my eyes. I know people make mistakes but allowing them to vote won't hurt us."
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  • +2 +2 0 John Feb. 3, 2013
    "Felon is a word that reflects a wide range of individuals, from psychotic murderers to people caught with Adderall studying for school.

    Apart from that, this country is brimming with criminals and criminality. 90% of the people in this country can probably think back to some point in their past when they committed a 'felony'. The only difference between them and the actual 'felons' is they didn't have the bad luck to get caught.

    But this country loves superiority games, and setting one side against the other is what it's all about.

    I was charged with a felony (had a bunch of Adderall) while studying for MCAT.

    Now, I can't vote, go to school, marry my fiance, become a doctor etc etc list goes on. (New York is pathetic, the only state where you can never expunge a felony)

    So, as far as I'm concerned, I'm no longer a citizen of this country. And that's fine. I would never in a million years want to be now. Voting is a pathetic gimmick anyway.

    Personal responsibility is laughable. You're a rat in a big meat-processor. Pills shoved in your mouth, psychiatrists ruining children, psychotic parents, detached-from-reality generation. I wouldn't take 0.001% of the blame for it. Unless I was a stupid sucker."
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  • +2 +2 0 Scott Galbreath Jan. 23, 2013
    "look at the damn bill of rights! the right to vote is unalienable!!!! just because I broke some damn law put forth by a rich ass corporation doesent mean I shouldnt be able to change that law."
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  • +2 +3 -1 Brenda Nov. 6, 2012
    "I'm a felon and I did vote today.. I served my time and I'm no longer on probation or a threat to society.. Lesson well learned!! Voting is my right I messed up but I don't think I should be banned from voting for the rest of my life because of it. I mean what do we teach our children on a day to day bases that when you mess up.. you own it and learn from your mistakes and move on. I mean we are human and we will make mistakes! but you can't or shouldn't want to punish a person forever for getting in trouble once in there life time.. and felon is only a "title" and people do change not all stay the same and not all situations are the same..."
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  • +2 +3 -1 Json Nov. 5, 2012
    "I believe anyone who commits a felony any felony and completes their sentence, paid their dues and is in good standings with the law, meaning not on paper. has earned their right to vote!"
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  • +2 +3 -1 Brian Oct. 25, 2012
    "At what point can a past be over looked by the quality of the man and the character of his walk. I myself a convicted felon find himself at a constant dead end seeking opportunity to have a second chance in society. I did the crime and I also did the time, probation, counseling, community service and self reconstruction. I am a changed man with a new mind and heart looking to progress this change only to find that my change isn't accepted, because of past encounters. We as people make mistakes, some of us learn from them some of us continue down the wrong path. But why continue to punish the change in a person who is seeking to move beyond there past mistakes, to focus on a brighter future. Im not asking for a hand out but requesting an equal opportunity at having success. I and so many others like me are looking for a chance to prove our self-worth. Even clothing apparel gets a second chance after having received a stain. We believe in recovery for an addict but not a felon, why is that? Just like all I want a better life and willing to work for better even if that means changing me.Im not attacking the views or opinions of a person but merely being a voice for a silent few who's changed."
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    • 0 0 0 Brenda Nov. 6, 2012
      "loved the comment keep up the good work I feel the same way I've changed and it's like i'm still locked up.."
  • +2 +3 -1 Michael H. Oct. 18, 2012
    "I personally believe that this should be some what modified. Specifically because we The People as a whole are all human and we make mistakes . People can learn from these mistakes though and people can change. With that being said I believe that there should be some what of a fine line to this Disenfranchisement, defining that the class of the felony should play a key factor in this. specifically for non violent offenders. A person gets caught up in a few mistakes and it can ruin them forever I don't believe that's just. not saying that its OK to break the law but once u pay your price for it that should be it. Being convicted of a petty felony compared to convicted of a violent felony crime or robbery ,murder, rape , battery , theft, child molestation or a sexual predator etc; there is a big variance there and that should be recognized. re habitability some shouldn't have stipulations, and barriers. A man or woman that takes the proper and legal steps to get there lives back on track and to become productive members of society should be allowed to do just that without exception."
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  • +2 +4 -2 vidgo Jun. 14, 2012
    "yes because every one has a fundemental right to vote and remember when george w bush was presedent? it was because lots of people were in prsion so there were less people to vote for other presedent. so yes i vote yes"
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  • +2 +4 -2 victoria matson May. 31, 2012
    "ifeel that anycon should have the right to vote because they have served their time unlike some pres, judges sentors and others and these people still get to draw a federal check any one that has to pay any type of taxes should have the right to vote and the crocked judges ect should have to pay just like anyone else"
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  • +2 +9 -7 MAK Jan. 27, 2012
    "Absolutely, First of all, almost half (this is true) are felons for non-violent and victimless crimes, which technicallly translates to drug posession. This, in of itself is a crazy reason to be out in prison or be a felon for any amount of time. But that is how our world is at the moment, so after they serve their sentence, there should not be a life time sentece of any king to follow."
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  • +2 +10 -8 Toughness Jan. 16, 2012
    "As a Conservative, I feel that after a person has completed all phases of their sentence for a felony conviction, their full right to vote should be restored. Every US citizen should have the right to vote. After all, not taxation without representation. I feel that voting, a citizen is having their say in their representation."
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  • +2 +10 -8 Cheryl Dec. 30, 2011
    "If a felon has done his time, is not on parole and is now paying taxes the he/she should be allowed to vote. At his time he/she has paid all dues to society. We should all be given a second chance. If convicted of a second felony then we can take away the right to vote."
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  • +2 +12 -10 Matt Dec. 28, 2011
    "I support the inalienable right to vote for all adult US citizens, no exceptions, including incarceration or "incompetence". Look at the socioeconomic disparity in the criminal justice system, and it's pretty obvious voters are being systematically suppressed.

    Anyone in prison should be allowed to vote from where they live (prison), either absentee via hometown, or registered as a voter in the county where the prison is physically located.

    The reasons I support this are:

    - Inmates already have (as they should) unlimited privileged communication with attorneys and full access to legal text--if you're in prison, you have the right to see exactly what laws you broke.

    - The census counts all US residents: citizens, permanent residents, temporary residents, foreign students living here temporarily to study, temporary residents who have overstayed their visas, and even illegal immigrants. Small towns should not be allowed to count nearby massive prisons into their population for funding purposes, then turn around and say they have no voice, which is _exactly_ what southern states wanted to do with slaves.

    Also, the USA should place pressure on foreign countries to allow US citizens imprisoned abroad to vote absentee."
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  • +2 +10 -8 Emery Jensen Dec. 7, 2011
    "No matter what, felons should be allowed to vote. Being in jail does not take away their rights. Besides, it is not fair for presidential candidates if their are people who are not allowed to vote. Even a few more votes could make a big difference."
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    • -1 0 -1 Rico Feb. 9, 2012
      "It does take away your rights becaus eonce you break the law law you loose your rights to vote and have a say on governmental issues."
  • +2 +15 -13 margaret debevec Sep. 13, 2011
    "I am a felon, 10 years ago ,I got into trouble with drugs a simple possession. I have not been in trouble since. do I get a second chance. will my past always dictate my future. come on it at least needs to be redefined."
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  • +2 +16 -14 pat riot Jun. 16, 2011
    "when people commit a felony ,we-as a society- dont want that persaon to stay incarcerated for ever. we want them to become responsable, productive members of society upon their release.
    a responsable member of society goes to work, pay their bills, mow their yards, and VOTES!
    the ones that continue being criminals dont care about voting anyway. but those of us that have stopped bein criminal, and care about our country are left out because of the others. no matter what an american citizen has not only the right but the duty to vote. we shouldnt loose the right to help decide our future because of a couple mistakes in our past.
    now i do believe that while incarcerated a persons right to vote should be suspended-just like most of their other rights are.
    but upon releasae all of their rights should be reinstated, (bearing of arms to depend on severity of the crime).
    but our constitution says that any law or right not given in the constitution will be decided upon by the individual state
    in this case the system is working the way our founding fathers envisioned- one of the few systems that are.
    if your a felon and dont like your states voting laws then move, or lobby your govenor to change it. but keep it in state."
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    • +1 +1 0 cyberscan Mar. 14, 2012
      "Actually the 15 amendment forbids state and local government from denying people the right to vote due to previous conditions of servitude. Those who think former felons should not have the right to vote believe that it is OK to basically pick and choose which part of the Constitution should be obeyed. In other words, they advocate breaking the Supreme law of the nation."
    • 0 +2 -2 James Nov. 21, 2011
      "To be honest I think if you can't own a gun you shouldn't be allowed to vote"
  • +2 +21 -19 Angel May. 1, 2011
    "Yes in my opinion felons should have the option to vote. If they have already been punished for a crime why continue to punish them after they have done thier time?"
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    • +2 +5 -3 lilpoo May. 13, 2011
      "Some Still Haven't Learned Their Lesson"
  • +2 +20 -18 Jeffrey Apr. 29, 2011
    "sure they should be able because of the input is no different than you or me."
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  • +2 +20 -18 Bobby Apr. 29, 2011
    "yes they are citzines to"
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  • +2 +26 -24 Scott Apr. 27, 2011
    "I believe that a person should have their rights restored if they have paid their debt to society, and they have completed parole or probation honorably. I completed my sentence and my parole honorably in 1987, but am still treated as a second class citizen. My question is: Why?"
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    • +4 +5 -1 Andylyn Apr. 29, 2011
      "Because your history follows you and you can't separate yourself from the shadow you made."
    • +1 +3 -2 Terri May. 9, 2011
      "I believe in most states that you can petition the court to restore your voting rights. You might want to look into that."
    • 0 +4 -4 James Apr. 30, 2011
      "for the same reason you can't own a gun"
  • +1 +2 -1 Tony Dec. 29, 2012
    "Yes. I made a bad decision when I was 14. I used a credit card that did not belong to me to order something. This was my fathers card. Instead of being honest, I lied and said it wasnt me.. so he contacted the bank, who turned it over to police, who eventually found the items in my possession, thus granting me a felony charge at 14 years old. The police told my dad he could not stop the charges, so I dealt with my dad, and the legal system, for a few years. Restitution, Community Service, Apologies, Counseling, all completed satisfactorily, which was supposed to have my charged dropped to misdemeanor.. but due to court record errors in my home town, it stayed a felony all these years and they won't correct it because there are no records to be found of any of this. Just a felony on my record for 19 years now. No violent crimes committed, good grades in school, college, etc. No further legal issues after that. So a choice I made when I was to young to know the law, that should have been between me and my father to deal with, has plagued me my entire life. I don't think anyone who commits a NON-VIOLENT crime AS A JUVENILE over a single bad choice, should be on the same level as violent criminals for the next 60-70 years."
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    • 0 0 0 bn Apr. 18, 2013
      "Terrible story. It shows cracks, and there are a lot of cracks, in the systems. It is far easier to just give every human the right to vote as long as they are not actually in prison at the time."
  • +1 +2 -1 Cristina Ramirez Nov. 2, 2012
    "I am for restoring a felon's right to vote. After paying their debt to society ( jail time, restitution, community service etc ), that should be the end of it. Further penalizing someone by not letting them vote does not make them feel that they are re-integrating into society as a productive member. It is in the same vein as not being able to find a job because of their record. What better way for someone to feel good about themselves and to build themselves up than to take an active role in the future of our/their country and laws and leaders ?"
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  • +1 +2 -1 Roy Oct. 13, 2012
    "So long as you are required to follow the law, you should have representation over it.
    Besides, with so many laws added to the books per year, you could easily become a felon and loose voting rights over something as simple as, as JN put it, smoking a joint. The point of voting is so that you have representation over the laws which allows you to prevent corrupt policy. If you loose your voting rights over corrupt policy, it defeats the purpose of having voting rights in the first place."
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  • +1 +2 -1 J> Reid Oct. 5, 2012
    "I feel if you have completed your time and you have paid your debt to society and now are relased back into society than you should have the same rights as the rest of society.We have got saw caught up in the traditions of man so now everything is labled~ "i did this", but "YOU" "DID" "THIS!" but in reality crime is crime; right is right; wrong is wrong.Your a FELON! i'm just a misdemeanor.Wow you have the right to vote after committing your misdemeanor which was only (1)
    statute away from a felony(yea im sure you were thinking of that(statute) when you ran that red light and injured people only to get probation & keep your right to vote)but here you have this young man who did this terrible or not so terrible thing but it was classified in the books written in the traditons of man as a felony,and he is now convicted and sentenced and does time and turns his life around and it gave him a positive outlook on life and he feels great and we all scream yay he has been redeemed welcome to society. Oh yea by the way, you can't vote in our electorial system for the rights and privelages that govern our fine nation,but you can stay as long as you like. In other words your just an occupant,you're not a resident.What a slap in the face!"
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  • +1 +5 -4 Mr.Blair J.Rowe Mar. 11, 2012
    "Yes,There would be no voter fraud from people in prison."
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  • +1 +18 -17 Jeff May. 19, 2011
    "The constitution says all people has rights and no one can take them away not even the government."
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  • +1 +19 -18 Terri May. 9, 2011
    "If they have served their sentence, and the Judge or PO is satisfied, of course they should.

    Denying the right to vote after they have served the sentence imposed on the, is unconstitutional. It extends the punishment for their crimes into a lifetime sentence. That is cruel and unusual."
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  • 0 +1 -1 steven Oct. 8, 2012
    "Yes, nothing should should strip tax paying citizens of any right that others have. Unless Felons are also excluded from paying taxes ,they should be able to vote."
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  • 0 +15 -15 Janice Hutton Aug. 4, 2011
    "After a person with a felony serves his/her time, the "right" to vote should be restored. Their rights as an American citizen should be restored at the time the felon walks out the prison gates. I'm concerned that felons can not get employed as the result of their crime. This almost pushes a felon back into crime. I would like to see business get a tax credit by hiring a felon in an effort to get them back into an honest way of life. We should not give up on a person just because a mistake was made?"
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    • +1 +1 0 cyberscan Mar. 14, 2012
      "James, absolutely once all of their sentence is completed and they have paid their debt to society. The Second Amendment to the Constitution is very clear. Would you want a mother to be unable to defend her kids from a rapist simply because she was caught with an ounce of weed five years back?"
    • +1 +2 -1 James Nov. 21, 2011
      "so should they get back the right to own a gun when they walk out of jail?"
    • +1 +3 -2 Lawrence Sep. 6, 2011
      "We have tried those things in the past but they havent worked
      all these "programs" that the government is doing for the criminals is wat is helping to put us in debt they had their chances now their on their own!!!"
  • 0 +14 -14 Patsy Jun. 26, 2011
    "Yes. They should be allowed to vote. If their offense was when they were young, why make them pay for the rest of their lives? They have to work and pay taxes, they have to follow the rules of society, so why not vote?"
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  • 0 +13 -13 Karen Jun. 24, 2011
    "If they have paid their debt to society and are released and law-abiding, absolutely they should be allowed to vote."
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  • -1 0 -1 Desiree Feb. 4, 2013
    "everyone should have the right to vote. if you live in this country and you are a citizen, you should be able to vote. People who have gotten caught committing a crime are most all the same as those who have committed the same crime and have not gotten caught. people commit crimes all the time and are not thought of differently until they are caught."
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  • -2 +12 -14 jody Sep. 5, 2011
    "I think it should be a case by case basis. If you commit a crime at 19 and then at 50 you want to vote after leading an productive life, you should be able to vote. Think of all the bad guys that don't get caught, they still vote."
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    • +1 +1 0 Rico Feb. 9, 2012
      "all the people who are against arent talking about when the felons are free we are talking about whilethey are in prison

      Read the core question!!"
    • 0 +1 -1 Scott Jan. 21, 2012
      ""Think of all the bad guys that don't get caught, they still vote."

      Nice!!"
  • -5 +12 -17 L. Crofford May. 6, 2011
    "Yes after they get off paper. But if they commit a 2nd felony no. Felons are expected to pay taxes like everybody else. You might have to consider the felony too. many people have been reformed and shouldn't have to suffer as being treated as 2nd class citizens."
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  • -8 +6 -14 Jessica Nov. 8, 2011
    "I understand where you are coming from but I believe that once that person breaks the law why be rewarded for something they don't deserve. I'm only in high school & I see it happen all the time. I know some people are in there for non payment of debt & etc but if they would've kept up with their bills they wouldn't be serving time in jail. I mean look at it. It's RIDICULOUS!!"
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  • -11 +12 -23 Kim May. 16, 2011
    "Yes, they are still citizens of this country and they are still affected by our government. However less desireable they are they are also "We the People." Even after their debt to society is paid they are further punished by not being allowed to be a part of the voting process. The fact is that most felons don't vote anyway."
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    • +4 +5 -1 James Jun. 25, 2011
      "people dont have a right to vote only citizens"
  • -17 +12 -29 TamJam May. 16, 2011
    "Even if someone is convicted under our laws, sometimes they still feel an unjustice. Many times people are unaware of the laws until they are slapped in their face. No matter what a person has done, they have a right to vote. If people knew that felons and those in prison were voting, they may think again about voting themselves."
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    • +3 +3 0 cyberscan Mar. 14, 2012
      "@James
      When someone is serving a sentence for a felony, their rights are suspended for the time they are under sentence. They are paying their debt to society. That is fair. If a person convicted of a felony has violated someone's rights, then their rights should be suspended for the same amount of time. This is only just. This is justice. However, once that time is over with, then it needs to be over with."
    • 0 +3 -3 James Nov. 21, 2011
      "so if they are allowed to vote in jail why not have guns in jail?"

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  • +8 +16 -8 JN Sep. 25, 2012
    "In the immortal words of Hunter S. Thompson, "Buy the ticket, take the ride".
    This planet is overpopulated and society only works if everyone plays by the same rules. There is a basic morality that one either possesses or not.
    I will however add one stipulation that comes to bear. Violent crime vs. a felony such as smoking a joint. The war on drugs in this country has not worked and has cost the American public dearly. That said, there are many "felons" who have fallen victim to bad policy."
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  • 0 0 0 @LoudAmerican Apr. 15, 2013
    "No matter what the situation was to cause a person to facilitate a felonious act - it was in fact a form of entitlement. "Entitlement Mentality" represents a JUST US pattern of thought. It's tends to evade real Justice For All.

    In my opinion; anyone who demonstrates a propensity to disregard any law for all citizens just to gain a self benefit will also vote in a like manor for selfish reasons.

    Political gains should ideally be considered as a good for the majority and not the individual."
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  • -5 0 -5 Ian Feb. 2, 2013
    "I think Felony convictions should bar people today from voting. That said, people who are out on bail or who are paroled are hold a higher risk in voting on the laws that they have broken. You can pull a man out of a crime, but I belive that you can never take the crime out of a man. Felons have torn down the pilars of society, aka, the laws, and we can't trust them to have changed a bit in prison. Felons can't be trusted to make our laws."
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    • 0 0 0 Raph Apr. 22, 2013
      "Ian, i think your logic is flawed. first of all, the only people able to make or change laws are the state legislature, congress, and the President. second, not everyone that goes to prison is a habitual criminal. and third, having said that, do you think that Martha Stewart is STILL a lying, stealing, cheat and should not be allowed to vote because she is a convicted felon? or Marv Albert, the NBA announcer; went to prison for rape, sodomy, and unlawful restraint; should he TOO not be allowed to vote? is he STILL a rapist and should be on the sex offender's registry?"
    • -1 0 -1 Geo Feb. 24, 2013
      "no all felony convictions result in a prison sentence"
  • -5 +16 -21 Rico Feb. 8, 2012
    "I think that is should be illegal because in con #4 it states that the U.S doesn't let children vote because they are not trustworthy. And so why let felons vote if they broke the law and are obviously not trustworthy. Therefore they should not be able to vote. - "Rico" -"
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    • +2 +2 0 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
      "There are alot of non-felons that are non trustworthy and there are felons that changed their lives around who are you to judge"
    • +2 +2 0 Angel Sep. 9, 2012
      "Chhildren can't vote because they do not have the legal capacity to vote, just like they do not have the legal capacity to enter into contracts--not because they are not trustworthy. Being trustworthy is a standard on character, not on legal capacity. Ex-felons can enter into contracts, children cannot because children do not have the legal capacity. Can you see the inconsistency in using children as an example of why exfelons should not be able to vote."
    • +1 +2 -1 Rayeann May. 17, 2012
      "Children also can't understand the issues that effect society. Felons do understand the issues. It isn't necessarily because they aren't trustworthy. If they are released, it is because they have paid the price for their crime and/or a board decided they have been rehabilitated."
  • -5 +21 -26 Mary Nov. 9, 2011
    "I totally understand where people are coming from but you also have to understand that people choose to break the law. We didn't decide for them. And since they want to break the law they shouldn't get the right to vote. Sometimes that's the way life is. You can't always get what you want all the time. Why give them the right to vote? It's completely understandable that voting is a right not a privilege, but you decided your own path of rights. Don't blame anyone else but yourself."
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    • +2 +3 -1 Rhonda Shonk Jan. 17, 2012
      "and sometimes cicumstances are out our control! We may have made one bad choice, a non violent crime of theft, paid back in full, money was used to help someone who was in terrible need, was it wrong, most certainley, and I paid a heavy price for taking less then 5,000. Should I neve get to vote again when I never even had a traffic ticket? It's easy to judge until it happens in your own family, praying for you it never does!"
  • -6 +1 -7 Larissa Feb. 12, 2013
    "I don't believe Felons should have the right to vote. This is because, they committed a crime and for that they have broken the law. To me, if you break the law, then you should lose all the rights as an American citizen. I think their right to vote away is teaching them a lesson. This is what i believe is right."
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  • -6 +1 -7 Donald Sims Jan. 20, 2013
    "Who in their right mind would want criminals voting for judges, sheriffs and questionable politicians. Not me!"
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  • -7 +32 -39 Randy Apr. 30, 2011
    "I have to say that if someone breaks the law and has to serve time for it. Should not have the rights of the same people that do not. If they do give ex-cons the right to vote. They might as well give the vote to illegals also."
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    • +2 +2 0 Rhonda Shonk Jan. 17, 2012
      "I only pray that no one in your family ever has to be judged this way, one mistake on my part in 55 years, now I have to be judged, a non violent crime, paid the money back, and all fees and fines, but still I am a felon, what about the guys on Wallstreet who all should be felons as well! I paid for my crime and no one was hurt except for me and my family"
    • +1 +1 0 Hilary Dec. 3, 2012
      "Randy, your comments that compare felons to illegals really saddens me and I wish that you would reconsider. How does committing a crime make a person not a citizen of the United States? Yes, that person made a mistake. They are repaying their debt to society. Yet they are still a citizen, they count for representation. How does their vote not count? I am sure you have made mistakes in your life. Perhaps you have told a lie once, should you be labeled a "liar" for the rest of your life? Can your word never be trusted? Perhaps you were young when you lied, or the last time you lied was 20 years ago. Yet, by your logic society would forever call you a "liar", you would have trouble finding a place to live, a decent job, and perhaps you would never have your voice recognized in the democratic process."
    • 0 0 0 mich Nov. 4, 2012
      "hey I was born here my time was paid my life turned around and I was sentenced to life what more do you want"
    • 0 +2 -2 Cassidy Nov. 8, 2011
      "Well they do say some people commit crimes and get caught and some commit crimes and never get caught so if someone does not have a felony does that mean that they never commited crime before?
      Everyone in some way has commited a crime sometime in their lifetime."
    • -1 +3 -4 Angel May. 1, 2011
      "Not only is your opinion biased it is truely for lack of a better word ridiculous. There are those that have worked thier tails off to get to where they are today and still get no respect for crimes they may have committed years or even decades ago. We are all of Gods creation and we ALL make mistakes, some of us are lucky enough not to get caught, and that is what seperates us from "law abiding citizens" and "felons"."
  • -8 +11 -19 Your Mom Jul. 16, 2012
    "I don't think you get to have a say in the law if you're not going to follow it. All those felons would just vote for whichever candidate is the least harsh on crime. Of course that would usually mean the Democrat and since I'm on the liberal side in most issues (besides abortion and crime) it would be good for me, but I'm not going to let that sway me. People need to be held responsible for their actions. At the very least, they shouldn't be allowed to vote while in prison like they can in two states. That's just absurd. I know some may say you have a right to vote, but then again you also have a right to liberty and that doesn't mean we won't put you in prison just because you should be free. People can have rights taken away if they don't deserve them."
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    • +2 +2 0 The Bigger Picture Dec. 4, 2012
      "Thats not fair... because you're a mom, does that mean that you'll automatically vote for officials who make it easier to breast feed and change diapers in public and require jobs to give more vacation days because you're a parent??
      I have a felony but i did my time... i paid my "debt to society" (prison, parole and restitution) i am now a law abiding (adult) citizen if me paying my "debt to society" does not earn my rights back, whats the point of prison? Whats the point of yhe justice system??"
    • 0 0 0 PIPER Apr. 28, 2013
      "Why would a felon vote for candidates who are soft on crime? Maybe BEFORE they're caught and become felons they would do that (when, incidentally, they have full voting rights), but I doubt few felons would do so AFTER becoming felons. The penal system is based on penalizing individuals who commit crimes. We put them in penitentiaries to be penitent. When they do exactly that, what right do we have to bar them from being good people now that their days of criminal behavior are over? You are very shallow to assume that all criminals are incapable of regret, rehabilitation, and reformation of their behavior. Children choose to suck their thumbs, wet beds, scream in public, and a host of other uncivilized behaviors, but we give them a chance to grow and learn and adapt and change. I'd bet you want that grace afforded to your children, wouldn't you? How about your sibling? No? Then why not kill all felons if there's no character growth or change possible for adults? I really hope your kids never make any mistakes that land them in a "time out," or as adults, in jail, because your myopic view insists there is no hope for people to grow and change. And that's sad."
  • -9 +7 -16 chris treat Oct. 8, 2012
    "Felons should not be aloud to vote. It is one of the rights you lose as a citizen when you commit a felony. Although most convicts do not think about the consequences when they commit a crime, usually not there first, doesn't make it ok. maybe they should be thinking about working, instead of stealing, or helping people instead of raping people. It may not seem like much to lose before the crime but it is a small bit of justice for someone who has lost personal possetions they may never have in their possession again. How many rapist are out there right now. Will that child ever be able to get rid of the gruesome act or have the chance to say they are a virgin once old enough to understand the whole concept. Murder and rape and assault under nearly all situations should never have the right to vote when others who were victims never have the chance to legally repay the horrific act to the abuser or killer, therefore no vote to someone who acts criminal towards others. It's not much, but its something for the victim."
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    • 0 0 0 PIPER Apr. 28, 2013
      "You should really review what constitutes a felony crime in your jurisdiction (and most of them). You speak of violent felons but say nothing of the non-violent ones, like a person who took a car given to them by someone who subsequently got upset at that person and reported the car stolen and the driver was arrested and convicted as a felon for grand theft auto. Or look at a federal felon who possessed a pound of marijuana for his collective in a state that permits medicinal marijuana but the feds don't agree. Or how about a mother who kidnaps their child from their ex who has been molesting their child? Kidnapping is a felony. Drug POSSESSION is a felony. Possessing a knife with a blade longer than your hand (but not using it) is a felony. Driving on a suspended license for a DUI is a felony. There are SO many laws that you're not considering when making these blanket statements and assuming that all felonies have victims. In my opinion, if there is no victim, the crime is non-violent, and the offender has served his/her time, then we are simply cruel and lacking logic in our efforts to disenfranchise them."
    • 0 0 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "It's sad how you think that all felons are Murders and Rapist... Grow up! Instead of complaining about something you have no Idea about, go petition to your state representative to not ever allow those murders and rapists out of prison, ever!
      I am an ex-felon, and I hope all rapist and disgusting people that violate others in those inhumane ways rot and die in prison.
      You should read some of my other comments on others comments... Not all 'felons' are the same. That would be seriously scary.... really."
  • -9 +10 -19 Ching Chong Mar. 5, 2012
    "Roger Clegg, JD states that "Individuals who have shown they are unwilling to follow the law cannot claim the right to make laws for the rest of us."
    Convicted felons have demonstrated poor judgement and should not be trusted with a vote."
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  • -9 +51 -60 James Apr. 30, 2011
    "A person who breaks the law should not make the law.

    Apr. 1, 2007 - Bill McCollum, JD

    enough said"
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    • +6 +6 0 Megan Apr. 13, 2012
      "The government breaks the law everyday but yet they get to make it!"
    • +6 +7 -1 Liz Dec. 10, 2011
      "We have ALL broken the law at some level; but don't always get caught. Does that mean that NO ONE should have the right to vote>"
    • +5 +5 0 MAK Jan. 27, 2012
      "There'a a slippery slope comment. Have you looked at our politicians or corprate greed, currently in control on making the law?"
    • +5 +7 -2 Dana Nov. 18, 2011
      "A felon is simply a person that has broken the law and got caught; people break the law everyday including law makers."
    • +4 +5 -1 Renee from Cincy Jan. 19, 2012
      "Tell that to the politicians, the wall streets idiots and the wackos who are breaking and bending the laws everyday from Capitol Hill. ALL PARTIES"
    • +2 +3 -1 James Nov. 21, 2011
      "No Angel that means all citizens have a right to vote not people"
    • +1 +1 0 Bill Oct. 23, 2012
      "It's sad that your argument is based (apparently) soley upon a quote from Bill McCollum. Bill McCollum is an idiot."
    • +1 +5 -4 josh middleton Jun. 20, 2011
      "a criminal should have the right to vote, whether legaly insane or just not mentally stable, they are a human and have the same rights we do regardless the bad choices they made in life."
    • +1 +5 -4 Angel May. 1, 2011
      "People that have comitted a crime are held responsible why should we continue to punish. Amendment 15 article 1 says 'The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.' That means all people"
    • 0 0 0 Jim Feb. 3, 2013
      "Everybody breaks the law. The only difference is that there are those who have ill-fortune of being caught."
    • 0 0 0 pete Nov. 9, 2012
      "silly illogical nonsense. felons don't make the law. the executive branch makes the law. go back to history class, and learn the three branches of the united states government, or watch I am a Bill song."
    • 0 0 0 mich Nov. 4, 2012
      "and some how you feel that rick scott never broke the law Really!!!"
    • 0 0 0 BAT Oct. 2, 2012
      "What about Charles Rangle"
  • -9 +38 -47 David Apr. 27, 2011
    "I do NOT feel that convicted felons should be given the right to vote! While they were committing their felonies, they obviously did not care about the rights of those that they violated. Therefore, they should have given up their own rights. This is a mainly liberal movement only. This should be a referendum. For any political entity to make such a bold statement without the vote of the people should be criminal in and of itself. It only serves to stack the voting pool... kind of like ACORN registering dead people so they can get more votes for their candidates. I am sure that our forefathers are rolling over in their graves at that which we have become!"
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    • +2 +7 -5 marymhm@live.com Apr. 30, 2011
      "That is one of the most biased things I have ever heard. What if you were the one who had committed a crime? What if you were being deprived of a right that should be yours after you have paid for the wrongs you committed. Do you mean to say that you have NEVER under any circumstances done anything wrong that merits forgiveness of the debt or wrong done against someone else. If so, I suggest you are very deluded and that you are trying to delude others. What you say has no bearing on the human condition because "there is none good but God and "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Now if you mean other than these two things, you prove my point exactly.

      Please hope that none of your bloodline ever comes under the judgment you hold over others. I suggest that would be something like psychological genocide of a bloodline. Per your judgment they could never be forgiven. There would be no room for them to change because you would not give it to them when that is not your doman to begin with. God also said that whatever judgement you use on others will be meted out to you, so you just set up your own judgment somewhere in your existance."
    • +1 +6 -5 phillip Jun. 2, 2011
      "IF they can't vote and have thier voice heard then don't tax them see how that works."
    • +1 +7 -6 pat Apr. 29, 2011
      "It is very easy to get a felon now days. After they pay their debt they should have the right to vote."
    • 0 0 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "Liberal Movement? HELL!

      I am a Republican, Conservative from the South!

      An Ex-Con, I got in trouble with the law when I was 18 years old for something dumb, one incident only, and since then, I have built and own a number of private businesses, I hold 2 Florida State Professional Licenses, I've been a community leader, a youth councilor, and have been active within my church & community for over 20 years, and I still can not vote!

      What the hell have you done with your life lately?"
    • 0 0 0 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
      "Do you know you can aguire a felony by losing your job and not being able to pay child support (non-violent crime) so why should your right to vote be taken away because of someting our government caused by letting company's out source work to other countries""
    • -1 +1 -2 Jessica Nov. 8, 2011
      ""David I honestly agree with you. We shouldn't reward felons for the wrong they have done? They BROKE the law.""
  • -10 +8 -18 Mike Laughlin Aug. 10, 2012
    "A felony, by definition, is a serious crime. As has been said by persons more informed than I, persons who commit serious crimes should not be in the position of deciding laws, and representatives that govern us all. They can still become useful and productive citizens, however, they have forfeited the right to vote. This is not "disenfranchisement" and it is begging the question to call it so."
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  • -10 +15 -25 Rico Feb. 1, 2012
    "I say no because if fellons dont follow the law then why should they get to help decide the law or decide who makes the law !!!!!!!!"
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    • +3 +4 -1 Rayeann May. 16, 2012
      "Everyone breaks the law. So no one should be allowed to vote?"
    • +1 +1 0 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
      "So your saying you abide by every law. I think not. But its ok for you to decide who makes the laws."
    • 0 0 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "you are a hypocrite if you believe that you have never broken a law.. or not really smart... or a liar...

      You have just never been caught...yet."
  • -10 +14 -24 Ben Gruber Jan. 18, 2012
    "It is clear that if you commit a felony you can't vote, own a firearm or serve on a jury. It is not hidden. If you commit a violent crime its like you are giving up those rights. It is a personal choice."
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    • +2 +2 0 AK Jul. 3, 2012
      "Not all felons are violent. I have been a felon for 15 yrs because I wrote a check for $300 with insufficient funds at the age of 18. I paid over $3,000 for my crime and was on probation for 5 years. I've never been in trouble again. Should I continue to pay for that crime and be treated like a non-citizen?"
    • +2 +2 0 Scott Jan. 21, 2012
      "A VIOLENT CRIME, yes. Not all Felons are violent."
    • +1 +1 0 Anonymous May. 22, 2012
      "Actually, for state crimes, it depends on what state serves their time. For example, a felon in California can vote upon release from prison and discharge from parole. California has one of the largest prison and felon populations in the country, and therefore many people would be affected that had no knowledge of such laws if such a law were to be enacted today moving forward."
  • -10 +12 -22 Jessica Middleton Jan. 17, 2012
    "I'm con because like Mr. Clegg says we do not children, noncitizens or even the mentally incompetent, and why don't we let them vote becuase we do not trust their judgement; which is completely correct. I believe that Felons have lost the right to vote when they committed the crime. I mean if you were to go to a store and steal something they whould take away the right for you to shop there, so there go if a person was to committed a felony shoudn't we have the right to vote take in away from them?"
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  • -10 +22 -32 Marissa Sep. 22, 2011
    "Felons are often portrayed as murders, sex offenders, and overall bad people.When you commit a crime you are fully aware (sometimes not, mental illness as example) of your actions. However, from my perspective people do change, and because I know this I feel that some deserve a fair second chance. With this argument comes debate. How do you really know someone has changed? Well to be completely honest... It would depend on the crime. Lets be honest people. No one wants a murderer voting on new laws that may affect us as a general public."
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    • +2 +2 0 carrie Feb. 21, 2012
      "No one may want a murderer voting on new laws... That is agreeable to a certain extent. I believe everyone deserves that second chance in life. If the GOP cannot come to a compromise within their own party then why can't a rehabilitated ex-con (which may be a murderer) cast a vote? No one knows the exact truth of why a crime was committed except for the people that were involved. True? The prosecutor, the Judge, and the Jury all can speculate but none will never know the full truth.. Look at how many innocent men/women are spending their lives in prison for something they have never done.. More or less serving time for someone else crime. Many can disagree if you like but it is what it is...Truth is truth... You will only know if you were there and You were not.. Like the Bible says Who shall cast thy first stone? I am quite sure more than 3/4 of the voters I wouldn't want voting on things in this country but do I really have a say so? No. Do I really know the depths of their past? No! Again~ even if I did would I cast that stone? Nope I would not. Why? Because I have to sinned.....God Bless the United States of America!!!"
  • -10 +37 -47 Pierce Sep. 1, 2011
    "A felony; discribed as a crime such as murder, or breaking and entering, more serious then mis-demenors. look at Charles Manson, what he did is described as a felony, there for it makes him a felon. Would you want a serial killer to vote in our government? Charles manson did not have a mental disease, he was someone who decided to rebel against our government, to kill a series of people. @kerry you say that someone who has "served his time" should be allowed to vote? According to geekpolitics.com 56% of violent felons are repeat offenders and 61% of all felons are repeat offenders" They might have went to jail, but he has not "FULLY PAID his debt to society". The right to vote is a privalage, felons knew their rights before they did the crime, and knew that they would be taken away if they did a crime. But they procided to do it, should someone who knew the risks, knew that they could lose their right to vote, but procided to kill. Be allowed to choose, how the very government they went against, is run?"
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    • +5 +7 -2 Dana L Nov. 8, 2011
      "You just contradicted yourself in your comment by saying "The right to vote is a privilage" Rights are not privilages. They are "rights""
    • +3 +3 0 steven Oct. 8, 2012
      "what abot the 44% and the 49% that aren't repeat. Also, if we can take their rights, the ones they pay to have; shouldn't they be able to stop paying taxes. I believe they should. I actually think ALL citizens should be tested BEFORE they are allowed to vote. I know your thinking what kind of test, well I think IQ tests for starters and at least an SAT or some other form of test so that everyone voting is knowledgeable in what they are actually taking part in. I bet that would exclude quite a few people, especially since the U.S.A. produces less than average students."
    • +3 +3 0 joe Apr. 24, 2012
      "according to the constitution voting is a right that is why they call it sufferage when you are stripped of that right. a more polite term is disenfrachisement"
    • +1 +1 0 mich Nov. 4, 2012
      "you really don't know anything. Stop letting those polls tell yopu how to live. Think for yourself man and if your mind tells you which way to go so be it but stop letting the govt dictate your life not all is black and white."
    • 0 0 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "Seriously? Look, I might have known that I would be 'taken away' as you put it, but I was 18 and a week old, high as hell, and although I come from a good family, I was the black sheep. You say that felons know that their rights will be taken away? Maybe some of them, but other than subconsciously knowing that I 'could' go to jail, hell no! I didn't even know what Civil Rights were 20 years ago! Did you? Right to vote? I was never even old enough to vote!
      Look, people like Manson are EVIL... and you are right, a large number of felons are repeat offenders.. Multiple repeat offenders (those should just stay there forever in my opinion) but some, like myself, I got in trouble once. That was it. Once. Over 20 years ago. Never again. I own 3 businesses & hold 2 State Certifications/Professional Licenses in the State of Florida, but still I can't vote.
      Should 'all' ex-felons vote? No. Not only should most not vote, but most 'dumb' people shouldn't either, although some do."
  • -10 +35 -45 james Apr. 30, 2011
    "If your not trusted to the right to own a gun, why should you be trusted with the right to vote. If your going to restore one right restore them all or restore none"
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    • +1 +1 0 Ryan Nov. 7, 2012
      "You could commit another crime with a gun. Are there any crimes you commit with a vote?"
  • -10 +30 -40 Stacey Apr. 29, 2011
    "They are in prison because they cannot or refuse to obey the law therefore they should note be aloud to vote. Matter of fact they get al ot of things that they should not. Berie Madoff in living in one of the "best" prisons Butner and living better than some of his victims. They designed the prison to be more like a university. CRAZY!!!"
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    • +1 +4 -3 Maria Aug. 9, 2011
      "I disagree with your statment. Everyone who has been convicted of a felony didn't intentionally set out to break laws and everyone who has a felony is not a bad person. In society today it's so easy to get a felony conviction. Yes, Bernard Madoff did intentionally commit his felonies and yes, most federal prisons are modeled after universities, because just like prisons are institutions so are unversities."
  • -10 +30 -40 John Apr. 27, 2011
    "I do not approve of felons having the right to vote because, frankly, any criminal that violates the rights of others should lose their rights in prison. And once the felon has earned their rights back they continue to be called felons...

    [F]elons should not have the right to vote. They are not trustworthy and competent enough to make decision in honoring the rights of other's, nor to keep this country safe and free from criminals, who only learn to survive in prisons by dealing in contraband, fighting, killing and taking what they want when they want to. To me these types of felons are not good voting material."
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    • +4 +4 0 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
      ""Do you know you can aguire a felony by losing your job and not being able to pay child support (non-violent crime) so why should your right to vote be taken away because of someting our government caused by letting company's out source work to other countries""
    • +4 +5 -1 Maria Aug. 9, 2011
      "John, everyone who has been convicted of a felony did not violate the rights of others. What about those during the civil rights movement that violated others rights by trying to keep them from voting, by using violence such as beating and killing. Do you think those individuals should be convicted of their felonies and their voting rights taken away? Wouldn't you consider them felons too?"
    • +1 +1 0 steven Oct. 8, 2012
      "Neither is our own government."
    • 0 +1 -1 tom Sep. 13, 2012
      ""I do not approve of felons having the right to vote because, frankly, any criminal that violates the rights of others should lose their rights in prison."

      John are you aware of how many victimless crimes there are which are considered felonies? If i have some marijuana in my pocket, how exactly did I violate YOUR rights? Yet I am denied the right to vote or own a firearm to protect myself. So many things are felonies now, its hard to even keep track. The net is wide, not like you think. Its not just murderers or car thieves anymore."
    • -1 +3 -4 palomablanca Jun. 8, 2011
      "I don't think its about that. maybe people should focus on the social environment being the problem. and not shun people"
  • -11 +9 -20 Dalton Mar. 7, 2012
    "If your a convicted felon i could care less about what rights you think you deserve to have. If you wanted rights maybe you should'nt have committed a felony"
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  • -11 +11 -22 Rico Feb. 9, 2012
    ""[P]rison is meant to be a punishment. A custodial sentence has always resulted in loss of freedom and loss of democratic rights for the duration of a prisoner's sentence. Why change that?..."
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    • 0 0 0 JohnVincentGI Jan. 6, 2013
      "yeah, but you quoted it, 'A custodial sentence...' Upon release, and after the proverbial 'debt to society' has been paid within that 'custodial sentence' for the duration of a prisoner's sentence, I agree, but not after that sentence has been fulfilled. Some states, even after fulfilling that 'sentence' prevent felons from ever voting again... it's like a perpetual punishment. I don't think that 'everyone' should vote anyway, x-con or free person, but smart people, or at least people that have an 'idea' of what they're voting for, at least... lol"
    • 0 0 0 AK Jul. 3, 2012
      "What about felons who didn't receive prison sentences and the crime was non-violent."
    • -2 0 -2 Alyssa Feb. 27, 2012
      "i agree"
  • -11 +14 -25 James Nov. 21, 2011
    "For those of you who are screaming "no taxation w/o representation" there are legal resident alien who live in this country, work hard, pay taxes, and DON'T break the law. They are not allowed to vote. So I don't feel sorry for felons. No vote for felons."
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  • -13 +22 -35 Lawrence Sep. 6, 2011
    "No they should not be alowd to vote"
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    • 0 +1 -1 DL Nov. 8, 2011
      "Should they be allowed to pay taxes?"
    • -2 0 -2 James Nov. 21, 2011
      "Hey DL legal resident aliens can't vote and they have to pay taxes?"
  • -14 +4 -18 JESSIE Sep. 12, 2012
    "FELONS SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO VOTE... PERIOD."
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    • +1 +1 0 Erica Sep. 13, 2012
      "Why? Please explain..give GOOD REASONS PLEASE"
    • 0 0 0 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
      "WOW nice, maybe a reason u feel that way and please make it a good one...."
  • -15 +13 -28 james 7 Oct. 6, 2011
    "poor kerry, he is so ignorant. they made a bad choice once, whats to say they wont do it again."
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    • +1 +1 0 MDB Sep. 25, 2012
      "Do you know you can aguire a felony by losing your job and not being able to pay child support (non-violent crime) so why should your right to vote be taken away because of someting our government caused by letting company's out source work to other countries"
    • 0 +1 -1 victoria May. 31, 2012
      "get your self or freind in trouble and then see how you and all the ones against this is"
  • -17 +7 -24 jj Jan. 4, 2012
    "i guess yu people donot know one of the reasons that helped Bush to become the leader of the USA"
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