Newsmax Anchor Advocates for Graphic, Livestreamed Execution

Carl Higbie, a Newsmax anchor and former Donald Trump surrogate, has publicly advocated for the livestreaming of the execution of Nidal Hasan, the former Army major convicted of killing 13 people at Fort Hood in 2009. Higbie suggested that the execution by firing squad be broadcast, expressing indifference to the use of taxpayer funds for its promotion, even humorously suggesting it could be advertised during the Super Bowl.

In a segment that drew significant attention, Higbie also voiced extreme sentiments regarding the execution method, stating he hoped the executioners would "dip their bullets in bacon before they shoot him." He emphasized his lack of concern for "dignity or honor" in the process, asserting his desire for Hasan's death. Higbie further elaborated on his view, stating, "I will send him to hell in the most disrespectful way possible, and then I will turn around and look at any other person who even thinks about doing what he did or any remnants of that and remind them that they have no path to the afterlife because we’ll do the same thing."

Higbie’s commentary emerged amid opposition to a reported proposal from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to livestream Hasan’s execution, scheduled for December 3. While initial reports indicated President Trump approved of the idea, White House officials are reportedly now leaning against proceeding with the livestream. Higbie, a retired Navy SEAL, previously served in the first Trump administration. He resigned from a role as a Trump campaign surrogate in 2017 following the resurfacing of offensive remarks he had made, including comments about Muslims.