Alabama Execution Puts Judicial Override in the Spotlight
When Alabama executed Ronald Bert Smith last week, it attracted attention around the country. Witnesses say Smith heaved and coughed for 13 minutes during the lethal injection. Alabama’s prison commissioner says proper procedures were followed, but an autopsy would be performed to determine whether there were irregularities. Alabama Media Group columnist John Archibald says as disturbing as the execution was, it’s the way the death sentence came about– through judicial override– that bothers him more.
John Archibald
Alabama is full of big news stories. From the removal of the Confederate battle flag, to gay marriage, to Birmingham's increase in the minimum wage. It's a lot for journalists to keep up with and a lot of great materials for columnists like AL.com and The Birmingham News' John Archibald. He discusses the city, county and state politics in forums large and small.
John Archibald says Former Birmingham Water Works Board President’s Sentence a Slap on the Wrist
12-13-2019
Sherry Lewis, the former chair of the Birmingham Water Works Board, will not go to prison despite being convicted of two felony ethics charges. A judge sentenced Lewis Thursday.
Internal City Government Spats Affect Election Outcome
08-24-2017
Alabama Media Group columnist John Archibald discusses the results of Tuesday’s municipal elections in Birmingham.
Republicans Prepare for Battle in Senate Runoff
08-17-2017
Alabama Media Group columnist John Archibald discusses this week’s U.S Senate primary and next week’s municipal election in Birmingham.
Outgoing State Ethics Commissioner Takes Aim at Fellow Commissioners
08-10-2017
An outgoing member of the Alabama Ethics Commission says the panel has been lax in upholding rules to keep state government in line.
Trump’s Attacks on Sessions Become Part of U.S. Senate Primary
07-27-2017
Alabama Media Group columnist John Archibald discusses the Republican side of the special primary election for U.S. Senate.
