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- calendar_today November 6, 2026
Governor Newsom Announces Landmark Death Penalty Action
California Governor Gavin Newsom revealed on Thursday that he plans to commute all death sentences in the state to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The announcement marks a significant shift in California's approach to capital punishment as Newsom prepares to leave office after completing eight years as governor.
Background: Moratorium and Remaining Death Row Inmates
In 2019, Governor Newsom imposed a moratorium on executions in California. Despite the pause, hundreds of inmates remained on death row. According to figures shared by Newsom's office, 548 individuals are currently sentenced to death in California, including 529 men and 19 women.
Governor's Statement and Rationale
Explaining his decision, Newsom stated in a letter, "I take this action because I firmly believe that state-sanctioned killing is incompatible with California’s values, undermines the foundations of our legal system, and diminishes each of us." He emphasized that the choice was among the most challenging of his career, acknowledging the profound impact on crime victims' families. "As Governor, I alone bear responsibility for this decision and its impact, just as I alone would bear responsibility for each execution," he wrote.
Legal Process: Role of the California Supreme Court
The California Constitution stipulates that any commutation for individuals convicted of a felony more than once requires approval from the California Supreme Court. Based on information from the governor’s office, 382 of the commutations, or about 70%, must be reviewed and approved by the state’s highest court to take effect.
Public Response and Ongoing Challenges
California voters turned down a proposal to repeal the death penalty in a 2016 ballot measure. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which has actively challenged the state’s death penalty laws as racially discriminatory, welcomed Newsom’s announcement. ACLU executive director Anthony Romero said, "These commutations reflect what justice demands: an end to a racist, error-prone, and inhumane punishment that has burdened California for far too long." The ACLU continues to pursue a legal case against California’s death penalty statute, arguing it is unconstitutional.
Newsom’s Record on Capital Punishment
Governor Newsom has previously voiced his opposition to capital punishment, asserting that it discriminates against mentally ill individuals and people of color. He has maintained that government-sanctioned executions are fundamentally wrong and out of step with the state’s values.
Related coverage
Source: abcnews.com.
