Bill Lee: “So ethnic minorities, again, are getting cut in this budget like everybody.”

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.

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

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.