As the 2024 presidential election approaches, criminal justice reform is emerging as a decisive issue for voters. According to a recent poll by BSG for FWD.us, 81% of likely voters support reducing incarceration. This support is widespread, with 85% of Democrats, 82% of Independents, and 76% of Republicans in favor. Notably, voters in battleground states like Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania overwhelmingly back reform, positioning it as a key factor in the election.

Bipartisan Support for 2024 Criminal Justice Reform

Zoë Towns, Executive Director of FWD.us, shared insights from the poll on the Let It Be Known digital show hosted by the Black Press. During the show, she highlighted how personal experiences with mass incarceration have motivated many voters. “One in two Americans has experienced incarceration within their immediate families,” Towns explained. “This issue affects both Republicans and Democrats alike.”

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Voters Push for Criminal Justice Reform in 2024

The poll indicates strong bipartisan support for reform, driven by voters’ shared experiences. As Towns emphasized, “People now understand that we can achieve safety and justice without relying solely on incarceration.” Furthermore, 67% of Black voters and 55% of Latino voters are more inclined to support candidates advocating for criminal justice reform.

Missed Opportunity for 2024 Candidates

Despite broad public support, neither Vice President Kamala Harris nor former President Donald Trump has fully embraced criminal justice reform in their campaigns. Consequently, Towns believes this is a missed opportunity. “In such a close race, advocating for reform is a low-risk, high-reward strategy,” she argued.

Clemency as a Key 2024 Reform Issue

Clemency has emerged as one of the most popular reforms, especially among Black and Latino voters. “The Obama-era clemency initiative reunited nearly 2,000 families,” Towns noted. “Voters are eager for President Biden to take similar action, as clemency improves public safety and keeps families together.”

Reducing Incarceration in 2024

Additionally, 72% of voters now view reducing the U.S. prison population as essential, up from 65% earlier in 2024. Among Black voters, support rises to 80%, while 74% of Latino voters advocate for decreased incarceration rates.

Moving Beyond Tough-on-Crime Rhetoric

Towns criticized the ongoing use of tough-on-crime rhetoric in politics. However, she pointed out that voters are now looking for real solutions rather than fear-based tactics. “Voters want genuine reform,” she said. “Many have direct ties to the criminal justice system and demand meaningful change.”

The poll also indicates that 65% of voters believe mass incarceration worsens issues such as homelessness, poverty, and mental health. “We know what works to improve community safety,” Towns emphasized. “Yet, politicians have often resorted to fear instead.”

1994 Crime Bill Legacy

The 1994 Crime Bill still impacts public perceptions of criminal justice reform, especially among Black and Latino communities. “This legislation expanded the federal prison system and affects families today,” Towns noted. “Voters carry these experiences to the ballot box.”

Latino Voters and Reform in 2024

Melissa Morales, Founder & President of Somos Votantes, emphasized the importance of reform for Latino voters. “Mass incarceration has separated Latino families,” Morales said. “Real safety solutions are needed.”

Battleground States Demand Criminal Justice Reform

Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton emphasized that criminal justice reform is a priority for voters in battleground states. “This poll shows that voters support reform, and it’s the right policy,” she stated.

Criminal Justice Reform: Decisive Issue in 2024

The poll reveals that voters are five times more likely to support candidates backing reform than those who do not. In battleground states like Pennsylvania and Georgia, this ratio rises to six to one.

Towns concluded, “This election will be decided by a small number of votes in key states. Criminal justice reform could tip the balance.”

 Watch the full discussion here.