AG Bondi says DOJ will target people who use hate speech
MSNBC·2025-09-16 20:34

First Amendment & Free Speech - The discussion revolves around the First Amendment and its protection of speech, including the complexities of defining and prosecuting "hate speech" [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] - Legal precedents, such as the Brandenburgg case (1969), set specific limits on speech that isn't protected, primarily incitement to imminent lawless action [4][5][7] - Concerns are raised about creating new exceptions to the First Amendment, especially in the context of social media and mass media [5] - The definition of speech that incites violence requires specificity, imminence, and capability to carry out the threat [7][8] Political & Social Commentary - The White House is accused of targeting groups and institutions they blame for protests and violence, raising concerns about how they plan to restrict these groups and what laws they will use [11] - There's criticism of Republicans for potentially engaging in "cancel culture," despite previously condemning it [15][16] - Concerns are voiced about the government targeting people based on their ideology, drawing parallels to the IRS targeting conservative organizations [20][21] - The discussion highlights the emotional and politically charged atmosphere surrounding the issue of free speech and its limitations [17][26][27] Key Figures & Organizations - Pam Bondi's statements on hate speech are being clarified and walked back, indicating potential overreach [10][22][25] - George Soros and Open Society Foundations are mentioned as targets of potential RICO charges for allegedly funding protests and violence [13] - Charlie Kirk's past statements denying the existence of hate speech in America are referenced [2][24]