Nightfall in Huntsville: The Quiet Closing of a Violent ChapterOn a humid evening in Huntsville, Texas, time folded in on itself. Last year’s numbers—47 executions, the highest since 2009’s 52—illustrate the renewed momentum in certain states for applying the ultimate punishment. “Nitrogen hypoxia is an untested and brutal experiment,” said Dr. Elena Márquez, who researches capital punishment at an international human rights institute. Former President Donald Trump remains an outspoken proponent, calling for expanded use of capital punishment “for the vilest crimes.” That rhetoric has energized some voters while alienating others. Is capital punishment a deterrent or a relic?