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Editorial Commentary on Illinois Repeal

By Steve Hall

The Chicago Tribune writes, "The end of death row." Gov. Pat Quinn made history as quietly as possible Wednesday. In a private meeting with a small group of supporters, he signed into law a bill that abolished the death penalty in Illinois. He also commuted the sentences of the state's 15 death row inmates to life in prison without parole. It was "the most difficult decision I have made as governor," Quinn told reporters. We believe that, and we warmly commend him for that decision. We understand why Quinn chose to avoid the fanfare that often accompanies the signing of major legislation. But this is a big moment, worthy of significant, if sober, celebration. Recognizing the intractable flaws of a system that sent at least 20 innocent men to death row, Illinois has taken a difficult but courageous step...continue to full post

Full post as published by StandDown Texas Project on March 10, 2011 (boomark / email).