…and hits it hard:
The fact is, the chance of Virginia repealing the death penalty in the next four years is about zero. It ain’t gonna happen. No one has any intention of even trying to make it happen. Therefore, the entire debate is revolving around an issue that, for all intents and purposes, is largely theoretical.
Here’s what will happen: The state Senate will present a proposal to raise taxes for transportation — as much as $2 billion a year, from the whispers I’ve heard. The General Assembly will be greeted with a gusher of revenues to dispose of. Funding for schools, transportation, higher ed, economic development, mental health, Medicaid — programs that will have a real impact on peoples’ lives — are matters that a new governor will have to grapple with.
Let’s hear less about capital punishment and more about budgetary priorities.
The state faces more critical issues with transportation, taxes and education, things that truly impact everyone in this state in very long term, very concrete ways.
Like Jim, I seriously doubt Kaine’s going to waltz into the Governor’s Mansion and abolish death row. Might he be more likely to grant clemency? Perhaps. Will these people be roaming the streets of Virginia at night? Hell no.
But this campaign is not, nor should it be, about the death penalty. Where’s some actual talk about the issues that matter, folks? Where are the solutions? Let’s get back to the issues here.
Norm over at OMT points out:
But Jim knows — or I hope he knows — that issues like the budgets, surpluses, and the Senate’s plan to unleash another tax hike proposal cannot compete against emotional issues like the death penalty.
Which is true. Politics as usual. But is this going to get anyone out to the polls? Does this do anything to get the Repubs out for Kilgore or does this help motivate Kaine’s supporters?
