Picture an Execution: The First Amendment and the Spring 2025 Push for Death Chamber Access

Journalism’s fight for access has ramped up because, as the Louisiana and Indiana executions show, the death penalty itself could be ramping up. The escalation is happening on the federal level too.

ACLU Sues Indiana State Police For Restrictions on Anti-Death Penalty Protests

Anti-death penalty protesters want to stand vigil during executions outside the prison entrance but have been blocked by police since early July. The ACLU lawsuit says the 1.6-mile no-protest zone around the federal prison does not serve a significant government interest and should be struck down.

Death Penalty Reporter’s Case For Access Can Move Forward

Buzzfeed News investigative reporter Chris McDaniel can move forward with his lawsuit against the Missouri Department of Corrections to be allowed to witness executions, a federal appellate court held. McDaniel— […]