US Homeland Security chief defends plan to livestream execution
US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin is defending a controversial proposal to livestream the execution of convicted killer Nidal Hasan. The plan has faced significant backlash from lawmakers who fear it could serve as propaganda for terrorist organizations and increase radicalization.
Why it matters
The debate highlights a major tension between the government's desire to demonstrate justice and the potential national security risks associated with publicizing state-sanctioned violence.
Image source, Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Image caption, DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said his department had weighed up the national security risks of livestreaming an execution
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) chief has defended a plan to livestream the execution of convicted killer Nidal Hasan, rejecting claims that it could fuel radicalisation or make him a martyr.
"I don't see an elevated risk," Markwayne Mullin said on Sunday. "I think people need to understand that if you attack America, we will come after you, and we will make sure that the punishment fits the crime."
Hasan, a former US Army Major, is due to be executed by firing squad in December for shooting dead 13 soldiers at the Fort Hood military base in Texas.
The Trump administration has said it plans to livestream his death, prompting shock and concern from both Republicans and Democrats.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in