Trump discusses potential livestream of Nidal Hasan's execution

President Donald Trump stated on October 10, 2026, that he has not yet made a final decision regarding the livestreaming of the execution of Nidal Hasan, a former Army Major convicted of killing 13 people at Fort Hood in Texas in 2009. Trump mentioned two perspectives on the matter: not showing the execution and showing it, suggesting that broadcasting it might deter similar actions by others. He indicated that he is aware of the military's preference but will ultimately make the decision himself. Trump described Hasan as a 'vicious killer' who caused significant harm, stating, 'Some of those people will never have their lives back in a true sense.' His comments followed an earlier announcement that Hasan, sentenced to death in 2013, would be executed by firing squad in December. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the execution would be livestreamed, which has raised concerns about the potential for Hasan to be seen as a martyr by others. Vice President JD Vance expressed uncertainty about the federal government's plans to livestream the execution and stated he would not watch it. Several Republican lawmakers also voiced their concerns about the idea of publicly broadcasting the execution. Representative Austin Scott of Georgia stated that while he supports the death sentence, he believes live-streaming executions is inappropriate, saying, 'America is better than that.' Representative Rob Bresnahan of Pennsylvania emphasized that the focus should be on justice for the victims and their families rather than turning the execution into entertainment. Trump also shared a post from Robert Jeffress, a supporter and pastor, who endorsed the livestreaming plan.