Ford Looks to Empower Previous Felony Convicted Individuals to Run for Local Office

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – With President-elect Donald Trump receiving a felony sentence today, state Rep. LaShawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, is filing legislation to allow certain formerly incarcerated individuals who served their time the opportunity to run for local office, bringing consistency to existing practice which enables such people to pursue state and federal office.

“Right now in Illinois, many formerly incarcerated individuals who served their time can run for state or federal office, but are unable to serve in a local elected position,” Ford said. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet many impacted individuals who have chosen a better path forward, have worked hard and want to help their home community with their unique perspective. We should be encouraging such people to be civically engaged. Instead of continuing to have an inconsistent patchwork of standards, let’s create a better system that embraces different experiences and gives voters greater choice.”

Illinois currently prohibits those with a felony conviction from running for certain local roles – such as mayor or trustee – unless they receive a pardon or the governor restores their rights. Such barriers generally do not affect those running for a state level position, and federal office candidates do not face felony-related restrictions.

Ford wants to clear up this inconsistency and further correct state rules that bar people based on the office they seek instead of the crime they committed. His plan would not change existing rules governing individuals convicted of a felony while holding office, regardless if they are a local or state official. These individuals would continue to be barred permanently from office.

“This legislation could be particularly impactful for communities that have been disproportionately affected by incarceration,” Ford said. “If we want our elected leaders to effectively tackle issues, we need to be open to people with a breadth of experiences and perspectives. Let’s choose to move forward with a more democratic system.”

For more information, please contact RepFord@LaShawnFord.com.