California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the commutation of death sentences for all 548 inmates on death row, a decision made in his final months in office. He stated that the state cannot morally execute individuals, despite public support for capital punishment. This action does not repeal the death penalty, which remains under legislative control. California has not executed anyone since 2006 and currently has a moratorium on the death penalty, which Governor-elect Xavier Becerra plans to extend.
Key facts
- Governor Gavin Newsom commuted death sentences for 548 inmates in California.
- California has not executed anyone since January 17, 2006.
- Newsom's clemency action does not repeal the death penalty.
- California has a moratorium on death penalties authorized by Newsom.
- There are 27 states in the U.S. where the death penalty is legal.
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