Nearly 20% of Newly Eligible Voters Cast Ballots in First Statewide Election Since "Restore the Vote" Implementation
Saint Paul, MN - Today, Representative Cedrick Frazier (DFL-New Hope) joined Minnesota Voice to highlight the outstanding voter turnout following the passage of Restore the Vote legislation. In the first statewide election since the law took effect, nearly 20% of newly eligible voters exercised their right to vote— this remarkable achievement, nearly double the 11% turnout for newly eligible voters in other states with similar re-enfranchisement laws.
"This milestone represents what's possible when democracy is intentionally inclusive and when we work together to confront and dismantle the legacy of systemic voter suppression that has silenced Black, Indigenous, and communities of color for generations," said Rep. Cedrick Frazier, the House Chief author of the Restore the Vote legislation. "Minnesota has not only expanded voting rights but has demonstrated that meaningful civic participation follows when barriers are removed. For too long, we've allowed systems to exclude the voices of our neighbors who pay taxes, contribute to our communities, and deserve equal representation under the law. Minnesota is finally correcting a historic injustice by ensuring every eligible resident has their constitutional right to be heard at the ballot box.
“The unprecedented success stems from coordinated grassroots organizing, strategic investments in peer-to-peer outreach, and a community-wide commitment to ensuring every eligible voice is heard at the ballot box. I am beyond proud of voting right champions coming together to strengthening our democratic process and continuing to lead the nation in voter turnout.”
The Minnesota Voice report can be found here.