Bill Lee: “But you are saying that; your policies and your budget show differently.”

I will seek an independent investigation and pause all executions for the rest of 2026.

The people of our state deserve to have those questions answered. And that’s what this investigation’s for.

Carrying out a lawfully imposed sentence is among the State’s most serious responsibilities, and the people of Tennessee expect it to be done in a manner that is not only legal and constitutional, but is effective.

I have ordered a pause on all executions for the remainder of the year.