21.   Five years ago, Chief Justice William Rehnquist made similar points in condemning the mandatory minimum sentences established by Congress.

22.   Gov. William F. Weld Thursday cited minimum mandatory criminal sentences and less judicial discretion in sentencing as the best ways to guarantee public safety.

23.   He is considered tough on crime, pushing hard, for example, for mandatory one-year minimum sentences for defendants caught with loaded, unregistered guns.

24.   He promised mandatory life sentences for repeat violent and sex offenders, minimum tough sentences for repeat burglars and drug dealers and an end to remission and parole.

25.   His initial request was denied because clemency, rarely granted, is generally not even considered until an inmate has served half of the minimum sentence.

26.   Hyde noted that under the crime bill certain drug offenders would not have to serve long mandatory minimum sentences.

27.   If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of four years on the sexual charges and up to seven years for obstruction of justice.

28.   In New York a prisoner must serve the minimum sentence before being considered for parole.

29.   Just last week, Gov. William F. Weld called for a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in jail for parents who owe substantial amounts of child support.

30.   Kerry cited four separate votes he cast in favor of mandatory minimum sentences.