"Alabama Approved for First Nitrogen Gas Execution in U.S."

A federal judge has ruled that Alabama can proceed with the nation's first execution using nitrogen gas, rejecting inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith's request for a preliminary injunction. Smith's attorneys argue that the new method is cruel and experimental, while the state attorney general praises the decision as a step towards holding Smith accountable for a murder-for-hire slaying. The planned execution method involves replacing breathable air with nitrogen using a face mask, but concerns about potential pain and suffering have been raised. The judge's ruling allows the execution to move forward, with Smith's attorneys planning to appeal the decision.