"Controversy Surrounds Alabama Execution Using Nitrogen Gas"

The US Supreme Court declined to halt the execution of Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith, who is scheduled to be put to death using nitrogen gas, a method that has raised concerns about potential pain and torture. Smith's attorneys argued that the execution would amount to cruel and unusual punishment, but the justices declined the request. Litigation continues as Smith's scheduled execution by nitrogen hypoxia approaches, with concerns raised about potential risks and the secrecy surrounding the protocol.