The 2024 presidential election has raised complex emotions for incarcerated Ohioans, many of whom are unable to vote but remain deeply engaged in political discussions.
As a group often left out of political discourse, their views on the election reflect a broader desire for involvement in decisions that directly affect their lives.
Nicole Lewis, engagement editor for The Marshall Project, talked about the findings of its new survey of Ohio’s incarcerated population.
“Many of the people who oversee the system are elected officials, sheriffs, judges, district attorneys,” Lewis observed. “and so incarcerated people have a really unique perspective on how well the people in those roles are executing their jobs.”
The presidential election held particular significance this year, with concerns about criminal justice reform, sentencing policies and who can participate in elections. Despite limited news access, many voiced strong opinions about candidates, especially former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, a former prosecutor.
Lewis noted the broader implications of the political divide, especially in how those inside view figures like Trump and Harris.
“Many, many people told us, ‘How can I move forward?'” Lewis reported. “‘How can I believe that society would want me back if they’re so willing to cast Donald Trump aside and make his felony convictions a complete disqualification for public office?'”
While people in prison in Ohio may not have had the opportunity to vote in the 2024 election, advocates said their voices and perspectives are crucial to understanding the political landscape. Their insights, shaped by years behind bars, are particularly relevant as more individuals regain the right to vote upon release and the effects of their views could shape the future of both criminal justice reform and electoral engagement nationwide.
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