As the looming execution of Troy Davis began to unfold yesterday, it seemed that everyone had an opinion on the matter. For instance, multiple celebrities from across social media outlets displayed their feelings on the impending death of the death row inmate.
Even reality star mogul Kim Kardashian got into the discussion, tweeting up a storm on Davis’ behalf:
Everyone google Troy Davis & read his story! NO ONE should die by lethal injection when there is this much doubt! Help save #TroyDavis
There is #TooMuchDoubt to kill Troy Davis tonight. Here’s the 411 >> http://bit.ly/pPNjim PLEASE RT
Supporters worldwide gathered for Davis in protest of his execution, there wasn’t anybody who was somebody, who didn’t have something to say about his case.
It was a discussion that had everyone talking, whether you were on the side of Davis and believed his innocence, or you were on the side of killing him.
The lone voice who didn’t utter a word was President Barack Obama. It was the biggest news story of the day and he didn’t make a one comment, tweet or post a Facebook status.
It’s understandable why the President didn’t say anything about Troy Davis, after all, he has more pressing issues to deal with: jobs, getting Americans insured, poverty etc … But to stay mute rubbed many people the wrong way.
I guess many wanted the President to use his executive powers to pardon Troy, but the truth is, Obama has no legal authority to get involved; it was entirely a state issue.
Furthermore, the President has gone on record saying the death penalty “does little to deter crime,” but supports capital punishment in cases that are so heinous that there is no other choice than carrying out the ultimate punishment.
With all that said, the President should have said something. He knows how a movement can change the world and all he has to do is look at his campaign from 2008.
Granted, the President isn’t an activist. After all, he was addressing the United Nations yesterday, but surely some of that Chicago swag he displayed when he ran the streets of the Chi fighting for the poor, could have been expressed when it came to Troy Davis.
A tweet, a Facebook post, or a statement on the matter would have been sufficient, but to stay silent is unacceptable. I’m not saying he should choose sides, but sending condolences to the Davis family or the MacPhails would’ve been enough.
