Source: Christian Science Monitor
by staff
“In at least one regard, California Gov. Gavin Newsom did not make history Thursday in seeking to commute the death sentences of 548 people to life without the possibility of parole. A few other U.S. governors have granted universal clemencies to those facing state execution. Yet his mass commutation, once fully enforced, would be the largest in American history. It would empty out the largest death row in the Western Hemisphere, reducing the U.S. death row population by nearly 30%. And by its moral force as an act of official mercy, it might add to the steady erosion of public support for capital punishment. While Governor Newsom cited his constitutional authority in granting clemency – with the state’s highest court still yet to review some cases – he also said he acted out of personal conscience.” (11/06/26)