For the first time, the Virginia State NAACP and its attorneys have gained a view of what they consider Republican Gov. Glenn A. Youngkin’s arbitrary process for restoring the rights of individuals released from prison.
Secretary of Administration Lyn McDermid notified the Virginia chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union this week that the governor has ordered the Office of the State Inspector General to investigate recent reports of people being removed from voter rolls.
“The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy and should be accessible to every eligible resident. It has been proven that participating in the civic process reduces recidivism, and individuals take pride in their communities when they can fully contribute to Virginia. True democracy does not deprive individuals of participation based on the whim of one individual. It’s time to correct the wrongs of our 1902 Constitution and leave the power to one succinct process that cannot be modified by a single person’s emotions in the moment.” Sheba Williams, Executive Director, Nolef Turns