I knew we had the votes.

Today’s death penalty debate began with an amendment that would permit a death sentence for murdering a prison guard or officer, without having to meet the new standards for evidence in the Senate bill. It failed, 61-75, a closer margin than the vote on any of yesterday’s amendments.

Our margins grew on the five amendments that followed.

Then the Speaker called for the vote. As delegates rose to explain their vote, I did my eyeball count of the green/yes votes on the electronic tally board.

85 green.

I initially decided not to speak. We had the votes.

More members rose to speak, in greater numbers than on any other bill that I can recall over the years.

I changed my mind and was one of the last people recognized by the Speaker.

“The death penalty is fatally flawed – for many reasons. The bill before us is also flawed. However, it would significantly reduce the risk of the State of Maryland executing an innocent person. I urge a green vote.”

The final tally was 87-52.