US to allow firing squads, gas, and electrocution for federal executions

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has instructed federal prison systems to broaden the execution methods available, including firing squads, gas asphyxiation, and electrocution. This decision, outlined in a 48-page memo published on Friday, aims to reinforce the death penalty’s role in “deterring the most barbaric crimes, delivering justice for victims, and offering long-overdue closure to surviving loved ones.”

Shift in Federal Execution Policy

Under the previous administration, most federal executions were paused due to a moratorium. Before departing office, former President Joe Biden granted clemency to 37 of the 40 inmates on death row. In contrast, President Donald Trump reinstated the pursuit of executions on his first day in office last year.

Trump, a steadfast advocate for capital punishment, had previously terminated a 20-year pause on federal executions. During his first term, the administration executed 13 individuals. Upon returning to power in January 2025, he issued an executive order to resume the death penalty for “all crimes of a severity demanding its use,” including cases where an illegal immigrant kills a law enforcement officer.

Defense of Lethal Injection

The memo also supports the continued use of lethal injection, asserting that pentobarbital remains “the gold standard” of execution drugs. Though this method has been the primary choice since 1993, it has drawn criticism for being perceived as inhumane. Additionally, securing the drug has become increasingly challenging in recent years.

By diversifying execution techniques, the DOJ claims it can “ensure the Department is prepared to carry out lawful executions even if a specific drug is unavailable,” as noted in an accompanying report.

Reactions to the Policy Change

“The prior administration failed in its duty to protect the American people by refusing to pursue and carry out the ultimate punishment against the most dangerous criminals, including terrorists, child murderers, and cop killers.” – Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche

Democratic Senator Dick Durbin criticized the expansion, calling it “cruel, immoral, and discriminatory.” He stated on X that “expanding the federal death penalty will be a stain on our history.”

State-Level Alternatives

While federal policy is shifting, some states have already adopted alternative execution methods. Five states retain the use of firing squads, according to the Death Penalty Information Center. In 2024, Alabama became the first state to execute a prisoner with nitrogen gas. Four additional states have since followed suit in using this method.