After thoroughly reviewing the merits of each case, I have decided to grant 33 individuals executive clemency,” said Governor Lee.

At a Dec. 8 press conference in Nashville, leaders noted that Pope Leo XIV — as well as his predecessors St. John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis — has expressed opposition to the death penalty.

Top Republican leaders announced a partnership between Tennessee and Turning Point USA last week, but Gov. Bill Lee says there's no formal plan.