Barbour Defends Pardons

Former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour has been under the gun for pardoning more than 200 people recently, including several murderers who worked at the governor's mansion.  But he's not taking the criticism lying down -- today in the Washington Post, he hits back with a thoughtful and eloquent defense of his decision to show mercy.

Here's a snippet:

In Mississippi, the constitutional power of pardon is based on our Christian belief in repentance, forgiveness and redemption — a second chance for those who are rehabilitated and who redeem themselves. Other great religions have similar tenets; so does the U.S. Constitution.

Mississippi spends about $350 million a year on our corrections system, much of it aimed at rehabilitating those who went wrong. Regrettably there are bad actors who will never be rehabilitated, but many who go to prison can be helped. Our state recidivism rate is just above 30 percent, far below the national average.

For some who are rehabilitated and redeem themselves, the governor is the only person who can give them a second chance. I am very comfortable giving such people that opportunity.

FAMM applauds Barbour for his courage and for reminding us of the value of mercy and second chances.

Now, if only other governors and President Obama would follow Barbour's lead!