Commentary The death penalty in the United States is on the verge of being snuffed out. The commonwealth of Virginia, which has executed more convicts than any other state in U.S. history, is now poised to abolish capital punishment. This is a big deal, as Virginia would become the first Southern state to eliminate the death penalty. Many see this legislative action as the beginning of the end to executions in this country. When Virginia’s governor signs the pending anti-execution bill, the number of states officially outlawing capital punishment will rise to 23, plus the District of Columbia. Additionally, governors in several other death penalty states have issued moratorium orders halting executions. The trend seems clear. The usual pros and cons of capital punishment played out during the Virginia debate. “The government should not be in the business of killing human beings,” Democratic Delegate Marcus Simon said. “It’s immoral, inhumane.” …