AOC Backs Bernie on Allowing Prison Inmates Right to Vote

Rep. Alejandra Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., on Thursday said she backs Sen. Bernie Sanders', I-Vt., controversial idea of allowing federal prison inmates to vote.

The firebrand lawmaker tweeted:

"To avoid looking completely + utterly out of touch w/ the reality our prison system: Instead of asking, “Should the Boston Bomber have the right to vote?” Try, “Should a nonviolent person stopped w/ a dime bag LOSE the right to vote?” Bc that question reflects WAY more people."

Sanders, a Democratic presidential contender, first floated the idea during a CNN town hall when he said every prisoner, including domestic terrorists such as the Boston Marathon bomber, should have the right to vote while they are jailed.

"I do believe that even if they are in jail, they're paying their price to society, but that should not take away their inherent American right to participate in our democracy," Sanders said.

Sanders reiterated his support Thursday, noting he had been "criticized for saying this, so let me say it again: Every American citizen should have the right to vote, even if they're in jail."

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