Criminal justice policy shapes policing, sentencing, incarceration, and how the system treats those who have served their time.
Criminal justice policy spans policing, sentencing, incarceration rates, and rehabilitation. Some believe tough enforcement, longer sentences, and strong support for law enforcement are the most effective ways to keep communities safe. Others believe the system is in need of reform to reduce mass incarceration, address racial disparities, and prioritize rehabilitation and reintegration over punishment.
Higher scores (+) — Voted for criminal justice reform — supporting reduced sentences, second-chance programs, and police accountability.
Lower scores (−) — Voted for tougher sentencing and enforcement — opposing reforms that reduce mandatory minimums or limit prosecutorial tools.
Recent legislation that contributed to politician scores on this issue:
Bipartisan law reducing mandatory minimums for nonviolent drug offenses and expanding early release programs.
Passed the House; would ban chokeholds and no-knock warrants at the federal level. Stalled in the Senate.
Would eliminate the sentencing disparity between crack and powder cocaine convictions.
Every score in PartyLine is based on official roll call records. You can cross-check any vote on GovTrack or Congress.gov.
Verification Guide →Answer a few questions to see which politicians align with your views on this and other issues.
Find Your Matches