California Governor Gavin Newsom has commuted the death sentences of all 548 people on the state’s death row, replacing them with life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. He used his constitutional clemency power, arguing that the state cannot morally carry out executions and that California’s capital punishment system is unfair and prone to condemning innocent people. Newsom called the move difficult but necessary, and accepted personal responsibility for its consequences, including the anger and distress it may cause victims’ families and other Californians who support the death penalty.
The decision is largely symbolic: California has not executed anyone since 2006, and Newsom ordered a halt to executions in 2019. Only 13 people have been executed in the state since voters restored capital punishment in 1978. Commutations could also reduce the millions of dollars spent annually on death penalty litigation. Newsom’s action comes as executions are increasing nationally and President Donald Trump has renewed support for capital punishment, including reinstating the federal death penalty. The contrast reflects the wide authority state governors hold over executions and California’s different approach. As a term-limited governor nearing the end of his tenure, Newsom has also been discussed as a possible presidential candidate in 2028.
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Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden says the PS6 should prioritize affordability over more processing power, arguing a $300 console would be real innovation. He says rising console prices are shutting out buyers and Sony should focus on making hardware smaller and cheaper. (gamesradar.com)
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Stunt Car Racer’s computer opponents use three spring-mounted wheels to follow the track and cannot fall off. Drivers share the same engine but differ in their habits and swerving frequency; the AI also adjusts its speed and position around the player. (gamesexplained.com)
GeoWorks was a graphical operating system for PC-compatible computers that competed with Microsoft Windows in the 1990s. It offered a desktop interface on relatively modest hardware but failed to gain broad adoption as Windows became dominant. (atlasobscura.com)
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