Former New York Democratic Representative Mondaire Jones is facing criticism for supporting proposed legislation that would have allowed incarcerated convicts, including rapists and murderers, to vote from prison. At the time, Jones referred to the federal ban preventing incarcerated felons from voting as “a form of slavery.” He did not seek re-election in the 17th District in 2022 due to redistricting that swung the area towards a more Republican leaning. Jones ran for office in the 10th District Democratic primary but was unsuccessful.
Now, Jones is attempting a political comeback by running against Republican Hudson Valley Representative Michael Lawler in the 17th District. However, his support of the prison voting measure could become an issue in the upcoming election. The proposed amendment that Jones supported, along with left-wing “Squad” Representative Cori Bush, was defeated 328 to 97 in the House back in 2021. Even many Democrats voted against it.
While some states like New York have restored voting rights to parolees who have completed their sentences, they are still denied those rights while incarcerated. Jones argues that this is inhumane and compares it to a form of slavery. He believes that every human being deserves the right to vote in their best interest, regardless of where they reside or if they are behind bars.
However, law-enforcement groups and Republican Michael Lawler have criticized Jones for prioritizing criminals over their victims. They argue that allowing convicted felons, including cop-killers and murderers, to vote from prison defies logic and is an affront to common sense. If Jones’ amendment were to become law, it would give the criminals involved in the infamous 1981 Brinks robbery case in Rockland County the right to vote.
Jones’ campaign defends his stance on voting advocacy for criminals and accuses Lawler of wanting to disenfranchise American citizens. They also highlight that Lawler has voted three times to defund law enforcement during his time in Congress and has expressed support for a convicted felon, former President Donald Trump.
As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how Jones’ stance on voting rights for incarcerated convicts will impact his chances of securing a victory against Republican Michael Lawler in the 17th District race.
