Ohio faith leaders push to abolish death penalty ahead of pivotal primary
Faith leaders in Ohio have called for an end to the death penalty, just days before the state’s May 5 primary election. The vote will decide the nominees for November’s gubernatorial race to replace Gov. Mike DeWine, who has repeatedly delayed executions since taking office in 2019. Religious figures argue that capital punishment contradicts core values of human dignity and redemption.
On May 4, over 500 faith leaders—including Catholic clergy, deacons, and religious sisters—sent a letter to Ohio lawmakers urging the abolition of capital punishment. The Catholic Church officially opposes the death penalty, teaching that it undermines the sanctity of human life. In 2018, Pope Francis updated the Catechism to declare the practice 'morally inadmissible' in modern society.
Rich Nathan, founding pastor of Vineyard Columbus, framed the issue as a pro-life concern, arguing that opposition to abortion should extend to rejecting state-sanctioned executions. Marsha Forson, associate director of social concerns for the Catholic Conference of Ohio, added that while authorities can impose punishments, they must allow inmates a chance at redemption. Ohio’s last execution took place in 2018, and Gov. DeWine has postponed every scheduled execution since 2019. Kevin Werner, executive director of Ohioans to Stop Executions, noted that the governor has clearly grappled with the issue. However, Attorney General Dave Yost has pushed to resume executions, stating that failing to carry out sentences undermines the justice system.
The debate over capital punishment in Ohio comes at a pivotal moment, with the primary election set to shape the next gubernatorial race. While faith leaders advocate for abolition, state officials remain divided on whether to lift the unofficial moratorium. The outcome could determine whether Ohio resumes executions or moves toward permanent reform.
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