DOJ broadens federal execution options to firing squads, gas, and electrocution

The US Department of Justice directs federal prisons to expand the range of execution methods to include firing squads, gas asphyxiation, and electrocution, while keeping lethal injection as the default method. The memo argues broader options ensure readiness if a specific drug becomes unavailable and reinforce the death penalty's deterrent effect. The move follows former President Trump’s push to resume federal executions after a moratorium, and it has drawn criticism from Democrats and opponents who call it cruel and discriminatory; context notes some states already use or are adopting alternative methods like nitrogen gas.