There's a New Sheriff in Town

Today's print column

Former Gov. Tom Vilsack got loads of attention in July 2005 when he signed an order restoring voting rights to tens of thousands of Iowans convicted of felonies and aggravated misdemeanors who served their time. He also made future restorations automatic once an offender's sentence was fully served.

Gov. Terry Branstad got precious ink for rescinding that order Friday. He managed to squeeze in his executive order somewhere between getting sworn in and changing into his tux for the inaugural ball.

Branstad's order means felons who finish sentences and pay all fines and restitution, can apply to the governor's office to have their voting rights restored, some day. He contends that Vilsack's regime, which allowed automatic restoration, didn't force ex-convicts to pay all the money they owed.

The middle ground between the Vilsack and Branstad approaches is obvious. Felons who serve their time and pay what they owe would automatically become eligible to vote. Vilsack's  automation is coupled with Branstad's desire for responsibility. Done and done. A governor would still have the discretion to step in, if needed, in special circumstances.

But with common sense, no one gets to score political points. And what should be an exchange of papers between corrections and elections officials has to be all about politics.

It's true Vilsack had politics on his mind when he signed an order that he hoped would bolster his civil rights credentials as he eyed national office. But he deserves credit for taking on the issue. And the resulting policy comes much closer to the non-political, coolly clerical restoration process that should exist.

But with auto-restoration, Branstad's office wouldn't be able to play voting rights sheriff and get all tough with the criminal element. Branstad is pulling out the dusty tin star Vilsack stuck in the drawer. Yup. Gang of felons will be comin' for their votin' rights at “High Noon,” governor. Saddle up.

We'd also miss another tired fight between Democrats, who see voting as fast food for everyone, and Republicans, who see it as a country club with velvet ropes and an exclusive guest list. Any sensible elections law change that wanders into the middle between the two camps doesn't stand a chance.

Granted, it's tough to be pro-felon. But they do live in our communities. They pay taxes and are subject, like the rest of us, to all the crazy edicts of the General Assembly. They're perfectly able to hold their noses and pick from the same lousy choices we all get.

One of the best parts of Branstad's fine inaugural address Friday urged all Iowans to serve their communities. His voting rights order is inconsistent with that message.

Republicans assume that most felons are Democrats. But that's shortsighted. Anybody who spent time in prison should be very receptive to calls for limited government. And now that conservatives so enjoy kicking judges to the curb, I doubt they'll find a more anti-judge voting bloc than felons. They need to think this through.

Comments: (319) 398-8452 or todd.dorman@sourcemedia.net