Pope Urges Biden to Commute Federal Death Sentences
The Facts
- During a prayer on Sunday, Pope Francis made a special appeal asking for the commutation of sentences for current federal death row inmates in the US, of which there are currently 40.
- The Catholic Mobilizing Network, representing 30K advocates including bishops and dioceses, has urged US Pres. Joe Biden to take executive action before leaving office and issue commutations.
- In 2018, Pope Francis updated the Catholic Church's Catechism to declare the death penalty "inadmissible," describing it as an "attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person."
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The Spin
Left narrative
By commuting federal death row sentences, Biden can end his presidency by upholding his and his Church's belief in human mercy and dignity. If not for that reason, then for the fact that capital punishment is flawed, racially biased, and fails to ensure public safety. Biden must heed these calls from his fellow Catholics and grant clemency, which would be a bold act of hope and justice during the Jubilee Year.
Right narrative
The Bible does not prohibit the death penalty but sets conditions for its use. For example, Leviticus 24:17 mandates it for murder. Distinguishing "kill" from "murder" underscores its focus on unjust acts. While Jesus taught love and grace, he did not abolish justice, especially for the most evil offenders, which would undoubtedly include murderers and child molesters. Capital punishment can deter evil and promote societal order when applied justly and humanely.
Metaculus Prediction
There is a 50% chance that capital punishment will be legal in at least 39.8% of US states in 2035, according to the Metaculus prediction community.