The American Democracy Minute Radio News Report & Podcast for Aug. 3, 2026
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger announced July 31st that she has restored the voting and civil rights to over 66,000 formerly incarcerated citizens since she took office in January. Virginia is only one of three states where withholding those rights remains in the state constitution.
Spanberger said in a statement, “I’m proud that — after contending with my predecessor’s efforts to deny Virginians their fundamental rights — we have restored the rights of more than 66,000 Virginians who have served their time. These Virginians deserve the right to use their vote, make their voices heard, and be recognized as contributing citizens to our Commonwealth and country.” UNQUOTE.
Virginia, Iowa and Kentucky have provisions in their constitutions which withhold voting and civil rights even after paroled citizens have returned to society. All three states empower the governor to restore those rights. If approved, November ballot measure, Question 3, would amend Virginia’s constitution to automatically restore those rights upon release.
The Rev. Cozy Baily, president of the NAACP Virginia State Conference said in a statement, “Voting is a fundamental right of citizenship – and every Virginian who has returned to their community deserves that right fully restored.”
We’ve linked to the Governor’s statement, local reporting by the Virginia Mercury, and each state’s policy at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org. I’m Brian Beihl.
Today’s Links
Articles & Resources:
Office of the Governor – Governor Spanberger Restores Voting Rights for More Than 66,000 Virginians
Virginia Mercury – Spanberger restores voting rights to more than 60,000 Virginians
NAACP Virginia State Conference – NAACP Virginia State Conference Commends Governor Spanberger for Restoring Voting Rights to More Than 66,000 Virginians
BallotPedia – Virginia Question 3, Voting Rights Restoration for Felons Upon Release Amendment (2026)
Brennan Center for Justice – Can People Convicted of a Felony Vote?
Commonwealth of Virginia – Restoration of Rights Process
Related ADM Reports:
American Democracy Minute – (2023) Virginia’s Governor Ended Automatic Voting Rights Restoration for 12,000 Returning Felons this Year. A State Error Almost Disenfranchised 3,400 More.
Groups Taking Action:
The Advancement Project, Restoration of Rights Project, Fair Elections Center
Register or Check Your Voter Registration:
U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your State
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