Alex Kozinski opens up with an emotional appeal, giving the reader a brief introduction into the case of Thomas Baal. Kozinski notes that Baal does not want a stay. The law clerk interjects by concluding Baal is “ready to swallow the bitter pill,” an interesting yet appropriate choice of words. Alex Kozinski talks about his struggle to sleep knowing someone within his jurisdiction is hours away from execution. Thomas Baal was considered to be competent. He was asked a series of questions in which he answered appropriately. To one he stated that he only wanted to get the ball rolling. Alex Kozinski noted that “Judges like [himself], who support the death penalty, are swept right along…observing manipulation by the lawyers and complicity from
