Virginia Democratic governor restores voting rights for more than 66,000 felons

Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Va., announced that she has restored voting rights to 66,085 Virginians who had prior felony convictions.

Virginia’s constitution doesn't allow convicted felons to vote after serving their sentences unless a governor restores their voting rights. 

“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,” Spanberger said in a statement. “These Virginians deserve the right to use their vote, make their voices heard, and be recognized as contributing citizens to our Commonwealth and country.”

Republican Glenn Youngkin, her predecessor, restored the voting rights of about 10,000 felons, according to reports.