From NBC News · Alexandra Marquez · · 2m
Trump undecided on livestreaming Fort Hood shooter's execution
President Trump says he hasn't decided whether to broadcast the execution of Nidal Hasan, who killed 13 people at Fort Hood in 2009, as Republican lawmakers express concern.
In brief
President Trump says he hasn't decided whether to broadcast the execution of Nidal Hasan, who killed 13 people at Fort Hood in 2009, as Republican lawmakers express concern. Trump said Saturday he has not decided whether to livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan, scheduled for December, as…
Trump weighs execution livestream
President Donald Trump said Saturday he has not yet decided whether to livestream the execution of former Army Major Nidal Hasan, who killed thirteen people at Fort Hood in Texas in two thousand nine.
Trump's reasoning on the decision
Trump told reporters there are two options: not showing the execution or showing it. He said showing it might deter others from committing similar crimes, but he would ultimately make the final decision.
“by showing it, maybe other people won't be doing what he did”
Trump describes Hasan's crime
Trump called Hasan a vicious killer who murdered thirteen people in cold blood and wounded over twenty. He said some victims will never have their lives back in a true sense.
“He's a vicious killer, killed 13 people in cold blood, wounded over 20.”
Military announced execution plan
Military officials said Monday that Hasan, sentenced to death in two thousand thirteen, would be executed by firing squad in December. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Thursday that the execution would be livestreamed.
Vice President expresses doubt
Vice President JD Vance said Friday he was not sure the federal government would livestream the execution. He added that if it did, he would not watch the event.
Republican lawmakers oppose plan
Several Republican lawmakers expressed concern about publicly broadcasting the execution. Rep. Austin Scott wrote that livestreaming executions is what jihadists do and America is better than that.
“live-streaming executions is what jihadists do. America is better than that.”
More Republicans criticize spectacle
Rep.Rob Bresnahan said an execution should not be a livestreamed spectacle and the focus should be on justice for victims and families, not turning it into entertainment.Rep.Tom Barrett urged Secretary Hegseth to reconsider.
“an execution shouldn't be a live-streamed spectacle”
Some Republicans support livestream
Rep.Matt Van Epps told NBC News Saturday that parents should not let their kids watch but said the administration is focused on accountability.
What it means
Trump said Saturday he has not decided whether to livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan, scheduled for December, as Republican lawmakers voice opposition to the plan.
