Florida Amendment 4 2024 Polls

Latest Updates and Analysis

Recent polls show that Florida Amendment 4, which would restore voting rights to convicted felons, is likely to pass in 2024. A poll conducted by the University of North Florida found that 62% of voters support the amendment, while only 38% oppose it. This is a significant increase from 2018, when the amendment was defeated by a margin of 55% to 45%.

The amendment has also seen a boost in support from both Democrats and Republicans. In 2018, 70% of Democrats and 44% of Republicans supported the amendment. In 2024, support from Democrats has increased to 80%, while support from Republicans has increased to 52%.

If passed, Amendment 4 would restore voting rights to an estimated 1.4 million Floridians who have completed their sentences for felony convictions. This would be a major victory for voting rights advocates, who have been fighting for years to restore voting rights to felons.

Background on Amendment 4

Amendment 4 was first passed by Florida voters in 2018. However, the amendment was later struck down by the Florida Supreme Court, which ruled that the amendment violated the state constitution.

The court ruled that the amendment violated the "single-subject" rule, which requires that constitutional amendments deal with only one subject. The court also ruled that the amendment was misleading because it did not explicitly state that felons would have to pay all fines and fees before their voting rights would be restored.

In 2020, the Florida Legislature passed a bill that would have restored voting rights to felons who had completed their sentences and paid all fines and fees. However, this bill was vetoed by Governor Ron DeSantis.

Arguments For and Against Amendment 4

Supporters of Amendment 4 argue that it is necessary to restore voting rights to felons who have completed their sentences and paid their debts to society. They argue that disenfranchising felons is a form of voter suppression that disproportionately affects Black and brown communities.

Opponents of Amendment 4 argue that it would allow dangerous criminals to vote. They also argue that it would be unfair to restore voting rights to felons who have not paid their fines and fees.

Conclusion

The debate over Amendment 4 is likely to continue in the lead-up to the 2024 election. If passed, Amendment 4 would be a major victory for voting rights advocates. However, it is also possible that the amendment could be struck down by the courts again.

Only time will tell whether Amendment 4 will ultimately be successful in restoring voting rights to convicted felons in Florida.