Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0000-3749-6634

Graduation Year

2024

Date of Submission

4-2024

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Government

Reader 1

Kenneth P. Miller

Rights Information

© 2024 Yulissa G. Sanchez

Abstract

The death penalty is a paradox in California. The state leads the nation in progressive reforms, including criminal reforms, and considers itself the “model blue state.” However, when given the option for abolishment, California voters have repeatedly chosen to maintain it. This thesis does not argue whether California should abolish or maintain the death penalty. Instead, it argues that if California were to abolish or even just reform the death penalty, the California Supreme Court should be part of the process. To explain why, this thesis is split into two parts. Part One examines why the court may be reluctant to join the conversation due to a history of California voters protesting the court’s death penalty decisions and even unseating three justices in 1986. This section also explains California’s unique government system, further complicating the California Court’s role in capital punishment. Part Two begins with a case study of how the “blue” states of Connecticut, Washington, and Colorado have recently abolished the death penalty. Then, I weigh the advantages of utilizing the California Court with alternative government branches. Finally, I will consider some of the roles the California Supreme Court may play in the future of the California death penalty.

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This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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