Crist, DeSantis speak out on Amendment 4 ruling
May 26, 2020 - Gov. Ron DeSantis said Florida will appeal a federal judge's weekend ruling on a case stemming from the 2018 passage of Amendment 4, a measure that automatically restored voting rights for people who have completed their sentences for felonies other than murder or sex crimes. The judge said the state law enacted after voters approved Amendment 4 is unconstitutional. That law requires people with serious criminal convictions to pay court fines and fees before they can register to vote. Rep. Charlie Crist, D-St. Petersburg, told the St. Pete Catalyst that the judge's ruling was "plain, simple justice." Crist, who was Florida governor from 2007 to 2011, said under his tenure, state policy was changed to allow more felons to vote, but that policy was reversed when former Gov. Rick Scott succeeded him. "The ruling by the judge was exceptional, extraordinary and just plain, simple justice," Crist said. "I hope that many former felons will have the opportunity to vote this November." At a news conference, DeSantis said the state knew the judge would rule as he did, and said there are "good grounds" to appeal.