Today’s criminalization of voting rights focuses on citizens who have been convicted of felony offenses. Voting laws are constantly changing, and people are understandably confused. Criminalization should not occur when mens rea is lacking. Citizens with felony convictions do not lose their right to an attorney, the right to remain silent, or the right to be protected from unreasonable searches and seizures. Why should they lose the right to vote?

People with past felony convictions have been prosecuted for registering to vote, casting ballots, or seeking to register while ineligible. It seems that the purpose of these prosecutions is to intimidate eligible voters with past felony convictions and keep them away from the ballot box. Democracy needs champions to defend people who acted in good faith but are being prosecuted for violating election laws. Voting rights restoration expert Blair Bowie offers tips that may help build a strong defense.