Desmond Meade, a prominent figure in Florida’s voting rights movement, has officially announced his candidacy for the state’s 2026 gubernatorial election. Meade, who previously led the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, made his announcement via social media, expressing excitement about the next steps in his political journey.

Meade’s candidacy is listed as active with no party affiliation, marking a significant step in his political career. His leadership in advocating for Amendment 4, which aimed to restore voting rights to individuals convicted of non-violent felonies who have completed their sentences, garnered widespread attention. This amendment was passed by nearly two-thirds of Florida voters in 2018.

However, the implementation of Amendment 4 faced challenges when the state enacted SB 7066, requiring felons to pay all legal financial obligations before regaining voting rights. Although a U.S. district judge initially blocked this law, citing the 24th Amendment, an appeal by Governor Ron DeSantis led to the overturning of the injunction, affecting many potential voters.

Meade’s personal history includes overcoming significant challenges, including a past involving drug-related offenses and a dishonorable discharge from the Army. Despite these hurdles, he has emerged as a symbol of hope and resilience, advocating for the rights of those who have served their sentences.

In the upcoming gubernatorial race, Meade will face candidates from both major parties, including Democratic figures like Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and former Republican congressman David Jolly, as well as Republican candidates such as Florida State Representative Byron Donalds and Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.