Friend,

When someone goes to prison for a small offense -- like drug use -- that criminal record is attached to them for life. And they're often required to disclose this offense -- no matter how small -- to potential employers, landlords, banks, and others.

This is just one of many ways that our criminal justice system operates as a failed institution, stigmatizing people for the rest of their lives.

I believe we need to overhaul our criminal justice system. And if elected, I will support a movement to build a better, more rehabilitative system for Americans -- one that prevents crime and arms people with the tools needed to lead better lives. Join me by signing our petition if you agree.

Here are just a few things that I would tackle as Iowa's next U.S. Senator:

• Ending for-profit prisons -- businesses should not be able to profit off the incarceration of Americans.
• Ending minimum sentencing -- each case has a unique set of circumstances surrounding it. One size does not fit all, and we must allow for differences in sentencing where appropriate.
• Stop imprisoning drug abusers -- these people are sick with addiction, a crime not deserving of a several-year prison sentence.
• Federally restoring voting rights to felons following their release.

People like Joni Ernst should be fighting for criminal justice reform day in and day out, but instead, establishment politicians continue to ignore these shortcomings.

We need leaders bold enough to fight for injustice especially when it's inconvenient.

If you agree, sign our petition and join our call for sweeping criminal justice reform. We have the ability to make lasting changes with a little help from people like you.

Thanks,

Eddie Mauro