Episode Details

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: Are you in favor of the death penalty for a person convicted of murder? As executions make headlines in Texas and Florida, California Governor Gavin Newsom considers commuting hundreds of death sentences, and the Trump administration revisits the use of firing squads, Michael examines America's complicated relationship with capital punishment. Gallup polling reveals a dramatic shift: support for the death penalty peaked at 80% in 1994 but stands at just 52% today. What explains the dramatic swings in public opinion over nearly 90 years? From the civil rights era to the crime wave of the 1990s, Michael explores the history, politics, and changing attitudes behind one of America's most enduring debates. Listen here, then vote! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.