Trump Touts Pastor’s Support for Hasan Execution Livestream as Pope Objects
Trump promotes pastor's support for livestreaming Nidal Hasan's execution as Pope Leo XIV objects.
President Donald Trump endorsed Pastor Robert Jeffress's advocacy for livestreaming Nidal Hasan's execution on Saturday, although the President expressed ultimate authority over whether the controversial broadcast would occur. Jeffress, a senior pastor of First Baptist Dallas and a longtime Trump ally, contended that a public execution would underscore the value of human life.
The statement exacerbated a rift among religious leaders after Pope Leo XIII reaffirmed the Catholic Church's stance against capital punishment and the head of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops publicly denounced the proposed livestream. This opposition emerged alongside criticism from Democratic lawmakers and Republicans who support executing Hasan but oppose broadcasting the event.
Newsweek inquired with the White House about the situation on Saturday. White House spokesperson said there were two options: not showing the execution, or doing so. Trump stated that displaying the execution might dissuade others from committing similar acts. Trump, who previously affirmed the Pentagon's plan, indicated he would ultimately decide on the matter.
On Friday, Vice President JD Vance cast doubt on the likelihood of the government livestreaming Hasan's execution, adding that he would not watch if it were broadcast. Trump defended the death penalty, describing Hasan as a "vicious killer" who "killed 13 people in cold blood" and injured more than 20 others.
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