Gov. John Kitzhaber stops all executions in Oregon, calling system compromised

[greenforest32]

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Read more at http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2011/11/gov_john_kitzhaber_stops_all_e.html

Those two executions referenced in 1996 and 1997 were just like the current one pending: the inmate(s) waived their appeals.

Sadly I'm pessimistic about repeal as the death penalty was reinstated in the Oregon state constitution and any change to the state constitution requires a public referendum which means the only path for repeal of the death penalty is a statewide vote from a public that supports capital punishment @ 60-70%.

Still a freedom move in my book.

[greenforest32]

Full address: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtK6m2H-ds0

Yeah that is quite nice. He hasn't really used his youtube account much and then, bam, he makes this decision and posts that video straight from his facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/johnkitzhaber

Pretty bold.

Also I think the reason he called for legislative action in the 2013 session as opposed to the 2012 session is because the 2012 session is very short (1-2 month) in the beginning of the year and of course the 2013 session is after the 2012 elections where Democrats are very likely to win a majority back in the state house of representatives (currently tied 30-30 between both parties). There is probably one or two Republicans willing to vote for repeal but I don't know if the House Republican leader will allow for a "conscience vote" like the NY Senate/Gay marriage issue.

Waiting until 2013 also gives time for review of the system, public debate, and of course new polls! Maybe we can repeal it...

[greenforest32]

Guess they don't want to bring it to the ballot after all. Especially after the 2012 California initiative failed?

http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/04/bill_to_repeal_oregons_death_p_1.html

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