The Sunday Oklahoman published the editorial, "Death penalty treated seriously in Oklahoma interim study."
Why has no other state adopted this method of execution if it’s superior? In 1977, Oklahoma became the first state to adopt lethal injection as a means of execution, although Texas was ultimately the first state to employ the procedure. But that was a different era. Being the first state to authorize a new execution method today would undoubtedly prompt numerous legal challenges, increasing taxpayer costs and slowing executions once again.
This is a debate with no easy answers, no cure-all for logistical challenges, and no permanent consensus achievable regarding the ultimate morality of the death penalty and its practical application. But state lawmakers, Christian in particular, deserve credit for taking a serious, thoughtful approach to this ultimate application of government power.
"Oklahoma AG backs press presence at executions," is by Randy Krehbiel for the Tulsa World.
A legal filing last week by two of his assistants is not a prelude to barring reporters from executions, Attorney General Scott Pruitt said.
“Generally speaking,” said Pruitt, “the press plays a very valuable role in attending the executions. Obviously, and I believe, that should continue to make sure the public has access, that there is transparency, and to know what’s going on.”
Last Tuesday, in pleadings asking for the dismissal of a federal lawsuit, two assistant attorneys general argued the press has no First Amendment right to witness executions.
Earlier coverage from Oklahoma begins at the link.
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