Death Row Advisor Urges Texas Governor-Elect to Halt Executions

The Reverend Jeff Hood, a spiritual adviser for inmates on death row in Texas, has called on Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa to stop executions in the state. Hood is an anti-death penalty advocate and founded the Execution Intervention Project. He addressed Hinojosa, urging her to be remembered as the governor who ended executions.

Hood’s letter coincides with a shift in political power, as Hinojosa becomes the first Democrat to win Texas’s gubernatorial race in over thirty years. Democrats have gained governorships in several states historically led by Republicans, which strengthens their political stance against President Donald Trump.

Hinojosa, a civil rights attorney, personally opposes the death penalty but has stated she will handle each case individually as governor. Texas has executed more inmates than any other state since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976.

Recently, Tennessee’s failed execution of Christa Pike reignited scrutiny over lethal injections. Similar discussions arose following California Governor Gavin Newsom’s decision to commute the sentences of inmates on death row, marking a significant act of clemency.

Hood emphasized that the promise of a new era in Texas should not include the death penalty. He noted executions have occurred under both Democratic and Republican governors in Texas.

“Richards had the personality. Richards had the intelligence. Richards had the gurney too…and she used it,” Hood remarked, referencing former Democratic Governor Ann Richards.

Hood implored Hinojosa to utilize her authority to slow down executions. The Texas governor cannot unilaterally halt executions but can issue 30-day reprieves and appoint members to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, influencing their recommendations.

He advised appointing board members favoring life over death sentences and creating barriers that impede executions, such as refusing to purchase execution drugs.

Hood suggested that upon taking office, Hinojosa should declare her commitment to prevent executions under her governance. He acknowledged the political risks but argued the importance of taking definitive action.

In an October interview, Hinojosa expressed her intention to evaluate each death penalty case individually. While personally opposed to capital punishment, she will consider each situation’s unique context.

This year, 35 executions have occurred nationwide. Florida leads with 19, followed by Texas with seven. Upcoming executions are scheduled in both Texas and other states, including a notable military execution at Fort Hood.

Hinojosa’s stance and decisions will play a crucial role in Texas’s approach to the death penalty moving forward.