Tens of Thousands of Incarcerated Voters in Michigan Will Be Locked Out of the Special Election
As the Michigan special election arrives, incarcerated citizens remain barred from the ballot box.
Related to: Voting Rights, State Advocacy
[Washington, DC] – As Michigan’s special election for the State Senate approaches, over 30,000 incarcerated Michiganders will not be able to make their voice heard. Michigan is one of 48 U.S. states that ban people from voting while completing a felony sentence in prison. Michigan’s practice of disqualifying voters based on their criminal legal status undermines its claim as an inclusive democracy.
“Voting bans due to incarceration continue to silence tens of thousands of Michiganders, particularly affecting communities of color and weakening the foundation of our democracy,” said Nicole D. Porter, senior director of advocacy at The Sentencing Project. “When individuals are excluded from the electoral process, entire communities lose a voice in shaping the policies that govern their lives. Civic participation is essential to successful reentry, stronger communities, and a more just society. Ensuring broader access to the ballot is not just about fairness – it’s about strengthening our democracy for everyone.”
With midterm elections approaching later this year, the urgency of this issue cannot be ignored. Every eligible voter must have the right to make their voices heard, regardless of their criminal legal status.
