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<p>Executions are on the rise in the U.S., even as more Americans oppose the death penalty. An October 2025 Gallup poll found that 44% of Americans oppose capital punishment, the highest level since 1966. Recent headlines, including a proposed public execution by firing squad and the botched execution of Christa Pike, have brought the issue back into focus. Jane discusses the death penalty with Elizabeth Bruenig, a staff writer at The Atlantic who has covered the issue for years.</p><p><strong>Show Notes:</strong></p></div><ul>
<li>Check out Elizabeth's work – <a href="http://theatlantic.com/author/elizabeth-bruenig/">theatlantic.com/author/elizabeth-bruenig/</a>
</li>
<li>Call Congress – <a href="tel:2022243121">202-224-3121</a>
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<li>Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – <a href="https://tinyurl.com/y4y2e9jy">https://tinyurl.com/y4y2e9jy</a>
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<li>What A Day – YouTube – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast">https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast</a>
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<li>Follow us on Instagram – <a href="https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/">https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/</a>
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<li>For a transcript of this episode, please email <a href="mailto:transcripts@crooked.com">transcripts@crooked.com</a>
</li>
</ul>

Executions are on the rise in the U.S., even as more Americans oppose the death penalty. An October 2025 Gallup poll found that 44% of Americans oppose capital punishment, the highest level since 1966. Recent headlines, including a proposed public execution by firing squad and the botched execution of Christa Pike, have brought the issue back into focus. Jane discusses the death penalty with Elizabeth Bruenig, a staff writer at The Atlantic who has covered the issue for years.

Sentenced To Death in the U.S.

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