CNN, Christian Science Monitor, Forbes, NBC 6 South Florida, CBS News, The New York Times, The Hill, Times of India|3 minute read

Is Trump a Felon? The Voting Rules You Didn't Know About

So here we are, folks. The drama of 2024 is unfolding, and guess who’s at the center of it? That’s right, our favorite orange enigma, Donald Trump. The big question on everyone’s mind: Is he a felon, and can he still vote? Spoiler alert: Yes, and the laws are wilder than you might think.

Trump: A Convicted Felon, But Still Voting

Yes, you read that correctly. Donald Trump is a convicted felon. He’s racked up 34 felony counts in New York, yet here he is, strutting his stuff to the polls in Florida like he owns the place. And guess what? He can vote. But how is that even possible?

The Legal Loopholes: Florida’s Voting Laws

Florida has some of the strictest laws when it comes to voting rights for felons. Generally, if you’re a convicted felon, you’re facing a mountain of paperwork just to regain your voting rights. However, there’s a twist here. Trump’s conviction took place in New York, where the rules are a bit more lenient. As long as he’s not in prison, he’s good to go. This is the legal equivalent of saying, “I’m guilty, but I’m still free to party.”

How Many States Allow Felons to Vote?

In the U.S., 26 states plus Washington, D.C. have laws that allow felons to vote after serving their time. This means that a significant portion of the U.S. population can still cast their ballots, regardless of their past. It’s a system that’s as confusing as it is convoluted, but hey, that’s democracy for you—messy, unpredictable, and full of surprises.

Can a Convicted Felon Be President?

This brings us to the next juicy tidbit: Can a convicted felon like Trump run for president? According to the U.S. Constitution, the answer is a resounding yes. There’s no law barring a felon from taking the Oval Office. So while we might be living in a reality show gone wrong, the rules say that Trump could potentially run again. Just imagine: President Trump—round two. Buckle up, America.

Why Voting Matters: The Bigger Picture

Sure, Trump’s ability to vote is a hot topic, but let’s not forget the bigger picture. Voting is a fundamental right, and the fact that so many felons can still participate is a testament to the belief in second chances. It’s a fine balancing act between justice and democracy, and it’s one that stirs up passionate debates across the nation.

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