Texas Newspaper Delivers Harsh Criticism to Greg Abbott

The recent pardon of U.S. Army Sergeant Daniel Perry by Texas Governor Greg Abbott has sparked outrage among local Texans, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman. Perry was convicted of murder for shooting and killing protester Garrett Foster during a Black Lives Matter rally in July 2020.

Despite the guilty verdict and a 25-year prison sentence, Abbott pardoned Perry after an “exhaustive review” of the case. The decision was unanimously recommended by the Texas Pardons and Paroles Board, all appointed by the governor.

The pardon has drawn sharp criticism from the community, with letters published in the newspaper condemning Abbott’s actions. One writer described it as a “dive off the cliff” towards authoritarianism, while another questioned the governor’s disregard for the jury’s decision.

The editorial board of the Austin American-Statesman also weighed in, expressing concern over the governor’s interference in the judicial process. They highlighted Abbott’s public support for Perry before his sentencing and his swift action to secure a pardon after the verdict.

Abbott, who has been in office since 2015, has faced backlash for what some see as a politicization of the justice system. Despite this, a recent poll shows that a majority of Texans still approve of the governor, indicating a divided response to his controversial decision.