Today marks a historic day in California. Governor Newsom announced he is commuting all death sentences in the state: which will save more than 500 people’s lives.

The League of Women Voters of California opposes the death penalty and supports criminal justice policies that protect human rights and reduce injustice. We, along with a broad coalition of advocates, have long urged Governor Newsom to use his executive authority to grant universal clemency to all with death sentences. We share in the hope that this declaration will be fully implemented and upheld by the California Supreme Court.

California’s death row is the largest death row in the nation and one of the largest in the world. Universal clemency will not only save hundreds of lives, it also moves California toward confronting the failures and inequities of its death penalty system. This bold and historic decision is a true demonstration of leadership and a defining moment in the campaign to end the death penalty once and for all.

Thank you for your help with calling on the Governor to choose mercy and grant clemency. You helped make this possible!

Sincerely,

Dora Rose
Deputy Director