[nky]

Finally, I'd like to point out that I haven't always felt this way on this matter. I once, and not long ago at all (about 2 years or so) was an absolute radical on the death penalty. I believed in it as much as Bill Clinton did (he oversaw the passage of a bill expanding those eligible for the death penalty, including non-violent offenders such as drug dealers. It also included crimes other crimes not involving murder, such as rape.) He was the most pro-death president this nation has ever seen.. and I made him look like Ghandi. So I urge each and everyone of you, on this issue and others... be willing to change your mind, and do research for that specific reason. I like to dive into a topic with the idea that i'm willing to change, and with the intention to research reasons why I should... its not always about strengthening your current belief, although even with the method I just described, you'll often do so.

Totally agree with you on this. I think I was right with you about 10 years ago until I started to really look at the ISSUE and not the emotional make the criminal pay aspect of it. For me it really came down to a fiscal debate nothing else.