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Biden Has 65 Days Left in Office. Here’s What He Can Do on Criminal Justice.

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Judicial appointments and the death penalty are among areas where a lame-duck administration can still leave a mark. Donald Trump’s second presidential term will begin on Jan. 20, bringing with it promises to dramatically reshape many aspects of the criminal justice system. The U.S. Senate — with its authority over confirming judicial nominees — will also shift from Democratic to Republican control.
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Human Rights group: China is world's top executioner

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A human rights group says the number of people put to death worldwide decreased in 2008, and that China retained its position as the world's top executioner.

The anti-death penalty group Hands Off Cain says in Wednesday's report about 2008 and the first 6 months of this year that Iran and Saudi Arabia also appear near the top of the list of the world's top executioners.

The group said at least 5,727 executions were carried out in 2008, down from 5,851 the year before. It says that 46 countries kept the death penalty last year, 3 fewer than in 2007.

The group estimates that China conducted at least 5,000 executions, or 87.3 % of the total. It is the same figure as last year.

The United States executed 37 people 5 fewer than 2007.

Source: Associated Press, July 30, 2009
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