I worked at an agency called “Freedom House” in 86–88 when Tim Kaine was on the board. I was a hothead, and during one discussion it was pointed out that the organizations bylaws didn’t allow what I wanted to do. I said, “who cares what a previous board said? We should do what is right.”

Tim Kaine said, “That’s not the way we do things, Gutbloom.”

I remember it because it was a kind-hearted but stinging rebuke of my self-absorbed zealotry.

Death penalty? For all of his anguish, and I believe his is 100% genuine, the guy now sits on the Senate Armed Services committee. Should Clinton win, he may soon be handing down the death penalty himself, not on individuals, but on groups of people.

With such decisions, having someone who adheres to the rule of law is more important than their individual convictions.