Ohio Governor DeWine Calls for End to State Death Penalty
7 reported2 unconfirmed
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, has called for the state to abolish the death penalty, reversing his previous support for the practice. In an interview with NPR, DeWine explained that his change of heart was driven by data showing the average wait time for the last 10 executions in Ohio was 21 years, which he said undermines the argument that capital punishment serves as a deterrent. DeWine, who is in the final months of his second term, noted that his past experience as a prosecutor and in judiciary committees over nearly five decades led him to speak out now. He also cited the psychological impact on those tasked with carrying out executions, based on conversations with individuals who have presided over them. When asked if he would commute the sentences of those on death row, DeWine declined to discuss that, saying he wanted to focus on his rationale for calling on the legislature to repeal the death penalty law. He acknowledged that some victims' family members support capital punishment but noted that many find the long wait for execution agonizing.
What’s reported
Governor Mike DeWine called for Ohio to end the death penalty.
DeWine previously supported the death penalty and cosponsored a bill reinstating it over 40 years ago as a state senator.
He said his change of mind was based on statistics showing the average wait time for the last 10 executions in Ohio was 21 years.
DeWine stated that the long wait makes it hard to argue the death penalty is a deterrent.
He cited the psychological impact on those who carry out executions, based on conversations with people who have presided over them.
DeWine is in the final months of his second term as governor.
He declined to discuss whether he would commute death row sentences, saying he wanted to focus on his rationale and start a conversation in Ohio.
Open questions
Whether Governor DeWine will commute the sentences of individuals on death row before leaving office.
Whether the Ohio legislature will act to repeal the death penalty law.
Key figures
Mike DeWine: Governor of Ohio, Republican, former state senator and prosecutor.
Sources: NPR
