President-elect Donald Trump is a convicted felon: Rights he might lose

In a surprising twist, President-elect Donald Trump is now a convicted felon. This status brings important legal implications, particularly with regard to the rights he might lose. Here’s a look at some of the key rights that convicted felons in the United States often lose.

The right to vote

One of the most fundamental rights in a democracy is the right to vote. In many states, convicted felons lose their right to vote while in prison. Some states also extend this deprivation to probation or parole periods, and some also require additional steps to be taken to restore voting rights after the sentence is completed.

The right to hold public office

The ability to hold public office can be affected by a felon’s conviction. Federal law does not explicitly prohibit felons from holding office, but some state laws impose restrictions, particularly for state or local offices. For the president-elect, the effect of a felony conviction on the ability to take or retain office can become a contentious legal issue.

The Right to Bear Arms

A felony conviction generally results in the loss of the right to own or possess firearms. This restriction is outlined in the Gun Control Act of 1968, which prohibits felons from purchasing or possessing guns.

The Right to Serve on a Jury

Convicted felons are generally disqualified from serving on a jury. This exclusion is based on the idea that a person with a criminal record may not be impartial or qualified to make legal judgments about others.

Employment and Professional Licenses

A felony conviction may also limit job opportunities and the ability to obtain professional licenses. Employers and licensing boards often consider criminal records when making hiring decisions, especially for positions of trust or authority.