Greetings folks:
I am writing to let folks know that Gov. Tim Kaine has caved to the political pressure and has denied Edward Bell's request for clemency. Eddie will be executed tonight at 9:00pm.
Over the past week I've written a series of diaries about Edward Bell's Clemency request. In those diaries I discussed Virginia’s willingness to execute a man who is likely mentally retarded; the severely deficient performance of Eddie’s trial counsel; and the perjured testimony that underlies his conviction. I also wrote a diary about the immense political pressure surrounding this case -- it was even the source of attack ads on Kaine by his opponent (Kilgore).
In response to these diaries, and perhaps especially in response to this one, the Daily Kos community acted. You helped us get over 4250 signatures on the Online Petition; have provided thoughtful, insightful, and comforting comments (both on the petition and here); and as always, vigorous debate. (Yes, even the debates were helpful to me in that they helped me select comments geared towards answering those questions.)
We made the Governor think long and hard before he denied clemency -- previous inmates had been told "No" at least 2 days before the execution.
I know that the comments, prayers, and thoughts will serve as a source of comfort to Eddie's family in the difficult days ahead.
Thank you for all of this. I wish that the outcome had been different. But I feel both comforted and inspired by the many Daily Kos folks who tried to make a difference.
ACTION ITEMS
Virginia's for Alternatives to the Death Penalty are protesting in Richmond. If you are in Richmond, head down and show them some support -- Thursday February 19th from 4-6 p.m. at the intersection of Broad and 11th (outside the Governor’s office). Details on how to contact organizers are available here.
Candlelight Vigils are scheduled for Thursday from 8:30-9:30pm throughout Virginia.