Can a Former Convicted Felon Run for Mayor

**Contender25** · 10-31-2010, 03:19 PM

Can a former convicted felon run for mayor of a town? I know this may be in the wrong section so mods please move if so. This gentlemen has been out of prison 10+years so does he have the legal right to run? All thoughts are appreciated.

**Mr. Knowitall** · 10-31-2010, 03:34 PM

Laws vary by state.

**Contender25** · 10-31-2010, 03:44 PM

Quoting Mr. Knowitall

Laws vary by state.

Thanks. GA in this case

**KeyWestDan** · 11-01-2010, 05:56 PM

What do you mean "former" convicted felon. Once a convicted felon, ALWAYS a convicted felon, unless you get a pardon from the Governor of your state.

Generally speaking if you have a felony conviction you can not run nor be elected to ANY elective office in any state that I am aware of. It would be a hell of a campaign issue to overcome if it were legally possible.

**Contender25** · 11-02-2010, 05:38 AM

Anyone have any insight?

**LawResearcherMissy** · 11-02-2010, 07:17 AM

With respect to eligibility to run for mayor, these things vary by locale.

You need to check with your local Board of Elections for the requirements to run. Felony convictions aren't necessarily a bar to running - or serving, for that matter - but that does depend wholly on your city's rules.