Empowering Government to Regulate Speech Would Harm Americans' First Amendment Rights

This afternoon, the White House is convening a group of elected officials, public policy organizations, and private citizens for a “Social Media Summit.” 

CEI research fellow Patrick Hedger said:

“Issues surrounding social media and speech have become more contentious and complicated in recent years, and are worthy of presidential attention. However, it’s disappointing the White House is elevating voices that advocate for the use of government against private individuals and companies with whom they have political differences.

“Empowering bureaucrats to police speech and fairness in any industry is a dangerous idea. Conservatives and free-market advocates should remember that not long ago the shoe was on the other foot and IRS employees weaponized regulation against political enemies. Inserting government into decisions properly left to the private sector doesn’t eliminate ‘bias’ or stop ‘censorship,’ as some claim. Only the government has the power to engage in censorship and asking it to intervene in questions about speech on social media could lead to severe curtailing of First Amendment rights under both President Trump and any future president.”

Read more:

• Hedger: Sorry, but YouTube’s New Video Removal Policies are Consistent with the First Amendment
• Crews: Facebook’s Call for Regulation Could Lead to Government Censorship

Murray: White House Uses Discredited Complaints Tactic against Social Media Companies