"Alabama's Controversial Use of Nitrogen Gas for Execution Sparks Debate"

Alabama plans to carry out the first execution using nitrogen gas on Kenneth Smith, who survived a previous attempt by lethal injection. The state's use of this new method has raised concerns about potential pain and secrecy surrounding the protocol. Despite legal challenges, the US Supreme Court declined to intervene, and state officials remain confident in the execution. Critics fear the untested nature of nitrogen gas execution and Alabama's past struggles with lethal injections. Smith's advocates argue for sparing his life due to the failed previous attempt and the state's competency. Smith was convicted for his role in a 1988 murder for hire, and his impending execution has sparked debate and emotional responses from both sides.