A tale of two payments, from Bloomberg, Trump

The voting rights of ex-felons vary from state to state. In two states, even incarcerated felons can vote; whereas in most others, voting rights are restored after release, except possibly for an extension of time for parole or probation. There can be exceptions for serious crimes.

Florida may be unique, because in 2019 it imposed an extra condition that felons not only complete their sentence, but they must also settle all outstanding related restitution, fines, and fees before they can register to vote. Many interpret this as a poll tax.

This year a fund was started to help pay off some of these debts. Billionaire Michael Bloomberg has raised $16 million in contributions which should qualify approximately 32,000 Black and Latino ex-felons to vote this fall.

In response, President Trump called Bloomberg’s actions “criminal” on Fox News, deeming these donations a felony equivalent to buying votes for the Democrats.

Meanwhile, in a recent speech in North Carolina, Trump pledged that 33 million Medicare beneficiaries will receive a $200 prescription drug discount card before Election Day with the cost covered by one of his Medicare drug price savings proposals.

It’s clear to see why Trump is offering this now. He’s attempting to win back some of the support of seniors that polls indicate he has lost since 2016. In short, it’s a bribe.

Comparing the two actions, I think it’s Trump who is trying to buy votes, not Bloomberg, who is just seeking electoral fairness.