npr.org
Colorado Jails Offer In-Person Voting
Colorado's new law requiring in-person voting in jails has boosted voter turnout among eligible inmates, overcoming initial security and logistical concerns.
English
United States
Us PoliticsElectionsLawPrison ReformCriminal JusticeVoting Rights
Colorado Public RadioNprGarfield County Clerk's OfficeJefferson County Clerk's OfficeDenver's Detention Center
Bente BirkelandLou VallarioJulie GonzalesJerome WhitfieldRaul VidaurriAmanda Gonzalez
- What were some of the initial concerns raised about the new law?
- Initially, some sheriffs expressed concerns about safety and logistical challenges in implementing in-person voting in jails. However, counties report that the process has been running smoothly.
- What is the rationale behind the law according to its main sponsor?
- The law's main sponsor, Democratic State Senator Julie Gonzales, highlights the importance of maintaining the humanity of incarcerated individuals by enabling their participation in the electoral process.
- What is the main provision of the new Colorado law regarding inmates?
- A new Colorado law mandates that all jails provide in-person voting opportunities to inmates. This addresses concerns about low voter turnout among incarcerated individuals who are eligible to vote.
- How did some of the inmates interviewed feel about being able to vote?
- Inmates interviewed expressed gratitude for the opportunity to vote, viewing it as a way to remain involved in their communities and to mark a new beginning.
- Why was in-person voting implemented despite the existing mail-in ballot system?
- While Colorado already mailed ballots to all registered voters, including those in jail, in-person voting has proven significantly more effective in boosting participation among the incarcerated population.