Voting day in the United States. And while he faces several charges, Donald Trump will still be able to vote today. How to explain it?
Although Florida often makes it difficult for people with criminal records to regain voting rights, Donald Trump, former president and Republican candidate, will have no problem voting for himself today. For what ?
A historic conviction, but an intact right to vote
Donald Trump was convicted this year in New York on 34 counts of falsifying documents, a case linked to payments made before the 2016 election to adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
In becoming the first former US president convicted of a crime, Donald Trump also faces a sentencing hearing scheduled for November 26.
New York law in his favor
In Florida, a state where Donald Trump currently resides, the rules for convicts are strict. In general, they face many obstacles to regain their right to vote, including paying all their fines and court costs.
However, if the conviction occurs outside of Florida, the state follows the laws of the state in question. In the case of Donald Trump, a New York law adopted in 2021 applies. It allows people convicted of a crime to vote as long as they are not incarcerated at the time of the election.
Obstacles for other Floridians
On the other hand, for other Florida residents with a criminal record, the procedures remain complex. Although an amendment passed in 2018 attempted to restore voting rights to ex-convicts who have completed their sentences, Florida Republican lawmakers introduced additional requirements.
In particular, they require that all fines and costs linked to the conviction be paid before being able to vote. This condition, in the absence of a centralized system to verify the payment of these fees, makes the process long and laborious for many citizens.
Senegal
