Lessons not learned
There's no shortage of criticism over the impending execution of Hank Skinner in Texas. The Medellin Innocence project has been pushing for new DNA testing. A number of people have come down on Skinner's side. For more information you can go to Stand Down Texas for links to resources and coverage.
The controversy exists mainly because Skinner's previous lawyers didn't request testing of all the evidence. The State did allow testing of some evidence in 2000, apparently believing that it would confirm Skinner's guilt - it didn't. Instead the test results raised questions about Skinner's guilt.
What bothers me about me most about this case is the complete failure to learn from history. I'm certainly not the first to point out the similarities with Cameron Todd Willingham's case. Officials and courts refused to acknowledge questions of innocence, and the debate still continues. Does the state seriously believe that the thing is not going to happen with Skinner? The case will provide even more evidence to those who believe Texas is more interested in vengeance and procedure than justice.
Governor Perry has a chance to step in and prove everyone wrong in this case; he can grant a stay, and allow the courts another opportunity to look at - and test - the evidence. If he doesn't, it is damning evidence of his true character.
Any person with a conscience would want to avoid at all costs what happened with Willingham. I realize he has stated how convinced he is of Willingham's guilt, but no rational person can seriously believe that. Even if you believe he is guilty, no one could seriously argue that he would be convicted today without scientific evidence that the fire was intentionally set. I can't imagine anyone living with that on their conscience; if it doesn't bother you, you have to wonder if there is a conscience.
I've talked before about my religious beliefs and convictions - specifically that we are all going to answer for the decisions we make on earth. I truly believe what we do now has eternal consequences. The sad thing is that most of those who support Governor Perry - and probably the governor himself - claim to believe the same thing. I don't think you get a pass just because you are in politics - or "following the law" and accepting the judgment of the courts. In fact, I think the power you wield makes those arguments even less successful. They sound good, but the fact is he does have the power to question those decisions.
It's clear that the decision he made on Willingham hasn't effected his political future. If anything its enhance it; he was able to survive a primary without a runoff, and is now being talked about for national office. for his sake, I hope he has thought about his future beyond politics. I don't know how things work, and if you can redeem yourself for bad decisions. personally, I believe you can. The governor has a chance to prove he learned something from Willingham - let's hope he takes advantage of it.
