Bill Lee: “This is the most despicable policy this administration and any administration that I have seen in a long time.”

So far as we know, the Department of Correction followed exactly the protocol that was outlined and vetted and approved by the attorney general’s office.

It’s a tragedy, and it’s deeply disturbing that that has happened in this state. The people deserve better than that.

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

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.