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Most Americans back death penalty, but support falling, poll reports

April 03, 2014

American public support for capital punishment is falling, according to a Pew Research survey, although a majority still back the death penalty.

The Pew poll, conducted in 2013, found that 55% of American adults support the death penalty and 37% oppose it. Just 2 years earlier those figures had been 62% and 31%, respectively.

Despite strong opposition from the Church hierarchy, most American Catholics (59%) still support the death penalty, the poll showed.

 


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  • Posted by: nix898049 - Apr. 04, 2014 8:07 PM ET USA

    I had this discussion with another Catholic who is anti death penalty because it precludes any chance of repentance. But,I said, suppose this (Catholic) convict has repented and received absolution. Do we not profess to believe in the forgiveness of sins at every Sunday Mass? I do not support capitol punishment either but is that not what death row ministry aims for? We're all under the same 'sentence' as it were.