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President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon not to livestream the December execution of Fort Hood gunman Nidal Malik Hasan, reversing an earlier plan that sparked wide criticism. The decision follows weeks of public debate over whether broadcasting an execution would be appropriate or lawful.
Trump cites public concern, but confirms execution will proceed
In a Truth Social post on Thursday, Trump said he believed streaming the execution “might have been a strong deterrent for the World to witness how America deals with Terrorists and SCUM like Hasan,” but that many people would prefer not to watch. He added, “He will die, as scheduled, by firing squad, but this event will not be streamed.”
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Trump also wrote that the families of the victims could attend in person if they wished, saying, “the execution may be viewed in person by the immediate families of the victims, if they so choose. They deserve to witness JUSTICE!”
Why the livestream plan provoked backlash
The Pentagon’s initial announcement to broadcast the execution drew immediate opposition from across the political spectrum and from religious organizations. Critics argued that televising an execution would be morally troubling and could amount to spectacle.
Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, described the idea as “a barbaric promotion of a culture of death,” reflecting the strong condemnation from faith leaders.
Practical and platform concerns
Even before Trump’s reversal, questions had been raised about whether major television networks would carry a live broadcast. Media outlets typically avoid airing executions, and platform rules present additional hurdles for online streaming.
Observers noted that services such as YouTube have policies that could prevent posting graphic or violent content, creating legal and policy uncertainties around a government-led livestream.
Case and timing
Hasan was convicted for the 2009 Fort Hood attack that left 13 people dead and dozens wounded. The execution by firing squad is scheduled for December 3.
