The subject of convicted felons losing their voting rights for life was raised during a recent Republican Presidential debate in South Carolina. In a spirited exchange, the candidates clearly defined their positions. Some stated that felons should never have their voting rights restored, even after they have completed their in prison sentences. Others said that when prison time and parole periods are successfully completed, the punishment is over, and the right to vote should be restored.
The United States is the only country that permits permanent disenfranchisement of felons even after completion of their sentences, though there are a few states which do restore the right under certain circumstances. (In fact, Prison Fellowship founder and ex-felon Chuck Colson had his voting rights restored by the state of Florida in 2000.)
Commentator Billy O’Reilly discussed the topic on his television show the following day. He stated that he did not believe violent and dangerous criminals should ever have their voting rights restored, even after their sentences are completed.
There is still the general sense in our country that when it comes to ex-offenders, “once a criminal, always a criminal.” Of course we at Prison Fellowship know that the most violent and dangerous of criminals can be redeemed and fully restored through the power and truth of Jesus Christ. And we have the evidence to prove it.
An article published just before Christmas in the Washington Times by rock-legend-turned-political-commentator Ted Nugent tells the story of Alex Ortiz. Out of prison for less than a week, Mr. Ortiz found a wallet filled with $1,000 and credit cards on a Detroit street. Mr. Ortiz had a family of eight children, and the money would have gone a long way to meeting their needs. Instead, he found the owner and returned the wallet.
Why? Mr. Ortiz said that is what God wanted him to do.
I don’t know why Alex Ortiz was imprisoned or if he was a felon. I do know that he represents a growing number of “ex-cons” who have been transformed, their sentences served, and are now ready to build new lives.
Click here for the full article by Ted Nugent