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I am -- and always will be -- a strong supporter of the death penalty. However ... it is essential that it be carried out fairly and that the process not be infected with prejudice based on race.

North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue, who vetoed a bill to repeal a two-year-old law that lets death-row inmates appeal their sentences on the basis of racial bias.

North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue, who vetoed a bill to repeal a two-year-old law that lets death-row inmates appeal their sentences on the basis of racial bias.

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.