Republicans raise alarms over potential livestream of Fort Hood shooter’s execution

WASHINGTON — A growing chorus of Republicans is expressing unease regarding the Pentagon’s proposal to broadcast the execution of Nidal Hasan, the former Army major convicted in the 2009 Fort Hood massacre. While the administration has indicated the firing-squad killing is set for December 3, questions remain about whether the event will be televised live.

House Speaker Mike Johnson disclosed to CBS News that members of the House Republican conference harbor significant reservations about the plan. He stated he intends to convey these objections to the White House, noting that many colleagues worry the footage could serve as a propaganda or recruitment tool for future extremists.

“There are colleagues who have concerns,” Johnson said during an interview with Robert Costa. “The concern would be that you would create a video that would be a recruiting tool for future terrorists… I wouldn’t be watching it if it was aired. But there’s a lot of opinions on that.”

Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska joined the criticism, arguing that there is no justification for streaming any execution, particularly this one. In a post on X, she contrasted the proposed action with American values, writing, “I would expect this from terrorists and dictators, but not here in America.” She added that publicizing the event would grant Hasan the martyrdom he seeks, urging the Pentagon to reverse what she called a “gruesome decision.”

Other Republican figures echoed similar sentiments. Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota emphasized that “the death penalty is not entertainment,” warning that publicizing such acts provides extremists with the audience they crave. Rep. Ann Wagner of Missouri also took to X to state that while justice must be served, “the United States of America does not and should not livestream executions.”

VICE President JD Vance also indicated he would not view the execution if it is broadcast. Speaking to reporters on Friday, he remarked, “If it’s ultimately livestreamed, I’m not going to be watching it,” while reminding the public that Hasan brutally murdered innocent people.

Despite the political pushback, DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin defended the administration’s stance during an appearance on “Face the Nation.” When asked if the move risked creating a martyr or radicalizing others, Mullin argued, “No one has to watch it.” He framed the broadcast as a necessary demonstration of consequence, stating, “If you attack America, we will come after you.”

President Trump has offered conflicting signals regarding his involvement in the decision. On Friday, he claimed he absolutely authorized the livestream, but later told CNY Central he “wasn’t involved in that decision,” though he acknowledged it was intended to serve as an example. By Saturday, Trump suggested the plan was still under review.

“There are two thoughts: don’t show it and show it,” Trump said. “I’ll make a decision ultimately. I know what the military would like to do, but I’ll make a decision.”

The execution of Nidal Hasan, responsible for the deaths of 13 people at Fort Hood in 2009, remains scheduled for December 3.