The state of Florida has shown interest in extending voting rights to ex-felons as, on September 25^th 2018, a poll was released by a university of North Florida showing a lead for a vote that would permit ex-felons register to vote. All statewide ballot measures in Florida need 60% in order to pass and the polls proved favorably as 71% voters are sure to vote in favor of restoring voting rights for ex-felons. Ballot Access News reported this story. Also, the Florida based Sun Sentinel added the following information on Florida’s uniquely prohibitive laws:

Florida leads the nation with over 1 million citizens disenfranchised and unable to vote because of felony convictions. The path to having their voting rights restored is long and difficult, and has been found unconstitutional by a federal judge. This November, Floridians who are able to vote will determine whether convicted felons who have completed their sentences, including parole or probation, will automatically have their voting rights restored. With two glaring exceptions: those convicted of murder or a sex offense.

One key aspect of democracy is the right to vote. A democratic minded community should be inclusive of both ex-felons and the innocents. Participation in choosing who to represent the people of Florida is a civic duty of its citizens. If this right is stripped, then the effort towards achieving full democratic society is failing to reach all.