Trump Undecided on Livestreaming Fort Hood Shooter's Execution

President Donald Trump stated Saturday that he has not yet decided whether the upcoming execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, the former Army major convicted in the 2009 Fort Hood massacre, will be livestreamed. The Pentagon had previously confirmed to Fox News Digital that Hasan's execution by firing squad, scheduled for December 3, was slated to be livestreamed.

Trump, speaking to reporters at the White House, acknowledged the gravity of the decision, noting that he is considering both the implications of broadcasting the event and withholding it. "There are two thoughts: don't show it and show it," Trump said. "Because, you know, by showing it, maybe other people won't be doing what he did."

He indicated that he would ultimately make the final decision, understanding the military's perspective. "I'll make a decision, ultimately," Trump added. "I know what the military would like to do, but we'll make a decision."

This potential livestreaming would mark the first military execution in over six decades and the first by firing squad since 1945. Trump had previously approved the use of an Army firing squad for Hasan's execution, following a recommendation from Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth.

Trump's comments followed questions about his approval of the livestreaming plan. He had previously stated in an interview that he understood the military's desire for the execution to "serve as an example." The condemned gunman, a former Army major, was convicted of killing 13 people and wounding 32 others during the 2009 attack at Fort Hood.

Vice President JD Vance also addressed the matter Friday, stating he was unsure of the livestreaming decision and that he would not be watching if it proceeded. The execution of Hasan, who is identified as the mass shooter in the Fort Hood attack, is set to be carried out by a firing squad. Hasan was a U.S. Army doctor at the time of the massacre.