1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep opposition to the announced execution of the Fort Hood shooter by firing squad, particularly the reported plan to livestream the execution. First, broadcasting an execution risks exposing the public, including children and vulnerable individuals, to deeply disturbing and potentially traumatizing images. An execution should never become a public spectacle. These images do not need to be shared, and I urge you to oppose any effort to livestream or publicly distribute them. I am pro-life, and for me, that belief extends to opposing the death penalty. I believe every human life has value, even when someone has committed horrific and unforgivable acts. Justice and accountability matter, but I do not believe the government should take another life as punishment. Finally, I am deeply troubled by the prospect of asking soldiers to participate in a firing squad. Our military members are trained to use lethal force when necessary to protect others and accomplish their mission. Asking them to deliberately take a life as part of an execution is fundamentally different. No soldier should be compelled to carry that burden, and I am equally concerned about the potential psychological and emotional consequences for those who volunteer. We have a responsibility to protect the well-being of the people who serve our country, not place them in situations that may cause lasting harm. I recognize the gravity of the crimes involved and the unimaginable suffering endured by the victims and their families. My opposition to this execution does not diminish that suffering. It reflects my belief that we can pursue justice without taking another life or turning a death into a public broadcast. I urge you to take a stand against the death penalty, oppose the livestreaming or public distribution of execution footage, and advocate for the protection of military personnel from being compelled to participate in executions. Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope you will take these concerns seriously and speak out on this issue.