Reply #36: My take

[mvd]

Dean's positions have evolved over time (I say it that way as someone who likes Dean,) and he's right about a couple things. Life in prison without parole should mean just that. And most accused do plead guilty, even if the joke went a bit far. I also believe in being tough in some ways. More life in prison for violent criminals like child molesters, and I'm not opposed to three strikes if it applies to violent crimes or non-violent crimes that affect a lot of people. All strikes should be approved by a judge, though. Things I hope Dean has changed on: the public defender's office should always be adequately funded. Public defenders also should make more than $35/40,000 a year. The prisons are already overcrowded with drug offenders. And I'm against the death penalty (unenthusiastically in some cases,) but I'm not sure Dean will come around on this.

A tough-on-crime perception WILL help in the general election.