Trump abandons plan to stream execution of Fort Hood shooter after backlash

US President Donald Trump has abandoned plans to broadcast the execution of Nidal Hasan, a former US army psychiatrist convicted of killing 13 people at Fort Hood in 2009. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had proposed streaming the firing squad execution, but the idea was withdrawn after widespread condemnation from both within and outside the Trump administration.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump clarified that the execution would still occur as scheduled but would not be streamed live. He allowed immediate family members of the victims to witness the execution in person. The controversy sparked skepticism and condemnation, including from Vice President JD Vance, who expressed doubts about the Pentagon's willingness to proceed with the plan.

Archbishop Timothy Broglio questioned the morality and purpose of broadcasting the execution, warning of potential "moral injury" for those involved. Legal experts noted that the administration's decision raised questions about its judgment and approach to capital punishment, particularly as Trump faces increasing political pressure ahead of the November midterm elections.