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The fact that executions are popular enough that they need to specify 'front row' is pretty fucked up. I've never lived in a state that does this; are these actually people who have some connection to the event, or is it just random people who decided they wanted to see someone die?
Press, maybe?
Press, and family of the inmate, if I recall.
I believe it's very important that these executions are observed. If the state gets to operate with impunity and no witnesses, many of these states have shown they don't have what it takes to act ethically with regards to the death penalty.
Every execution would be, "flawless", with no witnesses to say otherwise. Many victims families most likely wouldn't care either way, so it's the rest of the publics duty to ensure that executions are conducted in the most humane manner possible.
I believe it’s very important that these executions are observed. If the state gets to operate with impunity and no witnesses, many of these states have shown they don’t have what it takes to act ethically with regards to the death penalty.
That's a really good point. I came into the comments with the same opinion as OP that allowing people (especially victims) to witness executions is kind of fucked up, but you're 100% correct.
I'm very much against the death penalty. My state doesn't have it anymore, and good riddance. However, those kinds of checks are necessary, if it absolutely must occur.