Inmates Vote in D.C.

Volunteers from the Re-Entry Network for Returning Citizens were busy in Washington D.C. last week, registering an often overlooked group of voters – jail inmates. While D.C. law does not allow individuals incarcerated for a felony to vote, prisoners convicted of misdemeanors and those awaiting trial may still exercise their franchise.

Inmates casting ballots in D.C. is nothing new, but the population is often overlooked, and many simply assume they can’t vote while jailed. However, one of the organizers noted that engaging inmates in civic duties, like voting, is an important first step toward their successful re-entry into the community.

To learn more about felon disenfranchisement, visit our page on the voting rights of ex-offenders.

(Image Source)

Share