As a former captain in the United States Marine Corps, a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, a former prosecutor, and an advocate for public safety reform, I have dedicated my life to upholding the principles of justice and democracy. With just weeks away from Election Day 2024, and many participating in early voting, I am compelled to speak on an issue that is fundamental to our nation’s core: Defending democracy and upholding the integrity of our electoral process.

In recent years, we have witnessed concerted efforts to undermine voting rights and restrict equal access to the ballot box. These actions threaten the very foundation of the American democratic system. Every eligible citizen should have the right to vote, and it is our collective duty to ensure that this right is protected.

The Freedom to Vote Act (FTVA) and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act Amendment (JLVRAA) are critical pieces of legislation that, in tandem, must be passed to safeguard our democracy. The FTVA addresses several key issues that threaten the integrity of our elections, such as gerrymandering, voter suppression, and the influence of dark money in politics. By setting national standards for voting access, the FTVA will ensure that every citizen has equal access to the ballot. This is particularly important for marginalized communities, including justice-involved Americans, who have historically faced barriers to voting.

Congress has found that more than 6% of our voting-age African American population, or 1,800,000 African Americans, are disenfranchised due to a felony conviction.

The FTVA restores voting rights to individuals who have served their time and are re-entering society. As the founder of the Virginia Holistic Justice Initiative, I understand the importance of second chances and the value of reintegration. Those who have paid their debt to society should not continue to be disenfranchised.

The JLVRAA is equally as important. The JLVRAA aims to restore and strengthen the protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It strengthens legal protections against discriminatory voting policies and practices.

We need congressional leaders who are committed to standing up for our democracy. Virginia’s own Sen. Tim Kaine has been a champion for voting rights, demonstrating his support for both bills, and his leadership exemplifies the type of commitment we need from our elected officials.

As Vice President Harris mentioned during her address to the Democratic National Convention, no matter what issue matters most to you – whether it be criminal justice reform, the environment, or the economy – voting is the key that unlocks our collective freedoms and ensures your voice is heard.

With this, and the futures of my two young daughters in mind, we must recognize that defending democracy is simply an American issue. The right to vote for all Americans is the backbone of our democratic system, and we must come together to support these essential pieces of legislation and prioritize the integrity of our elections.

The writer is a local attorney and public safety reform advocate.