Donald Trump’s latest outburst claiming it to be “illegal” to criticize his Supreme Court appointees is nothing short of absurd. It begs the question: does he even understand the basic tenets of the First Amendment, or is he just conveniently ignoring them when they don’t suit his agenda? As an American citizen, I am deeply troubled by the idea that our elected officials, especially the President, would seek to restrict our right to freedom of speech and expression merely because they are being held accountable for their choices.
The notion that criticizing judges and justices should be punishable by “very serious crimes” is not only preposterous but also dangerous.… Continue reading
When former President Trump stated that there should be a one-year jail sentence for anyone who desecrates the American flag, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of conflicting emotions. On one hand, I can understand the sentiment behind wanting to protect a symbol that holds so much significance for many Americans. However, the idea of criminalizing an act as simple as burning or disrespecting the flag goes against the very principles of freedom and democracy that the flag is supposed to represent.
Throughout history, the American flag has been a powerful symbol of the values and ideals that our nation stands for.… Continue reading
As a 19-year-old nude dancer taking the state of Florida to court over age restrictions at adult entertainment establishments, I find myself pondering the contradictions and complexities of our society’s view on adulthood and personal freedoms. The law that stipulates dancers must be 21+ if alcohol is served and only go topless, while 18+ dancers can go fully nude in establishments without alcohol, seems arbitrary and restrictive.
The suit filed against Florida argues that this law violates the constitutional right to free speech, preventing dancers from expressing themselves through their art and making a living. It questions the state’s failure to consider alternative measures that could achieve state interests without impinging on First Amendment rights.… Continue reading
He flipped off a trooper and got charged. Now Vermont is on the hook for $175,000.
This incident of a man flipping off a Vermont state trooper, resulting in charges against him and a subsequent payout by the state of $175,000, raises some critical questions about authority and accountability. The fact that the state had to pay out such a significant amount for a first amendment violation is as concerning as it is outrageous. The trooper, identified as Jay Riggen, initiated this whole debacle over a simple gesture that should have been disregarded or, at most, reciprocated in jest.
Cases like these highlight the fine line between exercising one’s rights and facing repercussions from those in positions of authority.… Continue reading
Louisiana becomes the first state to require that the Ten Commandments be displayed in public school classrooms. What a laughable attempt at a blatantly unconstitutional move. It’s hard to believe this kind of archaic thinking still exists in our society today. But then again, this is Louisiana we’re talking about – a state that seems more focused on passing frivolous laws rather than addressing real issues.
Let’s face it, placing the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms is nothing more than a pointless symbolic gesture that only serves to waste public resources. And coincidentally, Louisiana happens to have one of the most corrupt and Trump-loving governors in the country.… Continue reading
I am absolutely appalled by the recent statements made by Donald Trump regarding his intentions to crush pro-Palestinian protests and deport demonstrators. The fact that he advocates for forcefully removing individuals who are exercising their First Amendment rights is a clear violation of the principles our country was founded on. How can anyone support a leader who openly expresses such disdain for freedom of speech and assembly?
It is deeply concerning to see parallels between Trump’s praise for China over the Tiananmen Square massacre and his approach to handling protests within the United States. His admiration for authoritarian measures, such as using military force to suppress dissent, is a dangerous and authoritarian mindset that has no place in a democratic society.… Continue reading
It’s disheartening to see a story like this coming out of Alabama, where a judge has ordered a driver to apologize or face jail time for uttering the words, “Get your ass out of the way” to a police officer. The incident began when the driver, Mr. Burks, was pulled over for allegedly driving above the speed limit of 25 mph. It’s worth noting that the officer didn’t have concrete proof of the alleged speeding and resorted to estimating the speed using his cruise control, which is a questionable method at best.
After Mr. Burks expressed his disbelief in the officer’s methodology, the situation escalated when the officer stood in front of his vehicle and refused to move.… Continue reading
As I read the headline about the bill to ban displays of Satan in public property moving forward in the Senate, I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. It seems like yet another example of right-wing politicians disregarding the principles of the U.S. Constitution. In just 25 words, this bill manages to violate three separate clauses of the First Amendment. It’s truly impressive how they can be against the constitution while claiming to be its biggest defenders.
What strikes me as particularly amusing is the fact that the bill explicitly targets displays of Satan, rather than the broader Satanic Temple. It’s as if they have no idea that the Satanic Temple actually uses a statue of Baphomet as their symbol, not Satan himself.… Continue reading
Arizona GOP lawmakers are at it again, always finding new ways to waste time and taxpayers’ money with blatantly unconstitutional bills. The latest one on their agenda? Senate Bill 1279, also known as the Reject Escalating Satanism by Preserving Essential Core Traditions Act, or RESPECT. This bill aims to prohibit satanic displays on public property in Arizona, because apparently, the GOP is the arbiter of what is acceptable on public land.
Now, let me start by saying that I have no personal affiliation with the satanic community or any religious group for that matter. But what bothers me is the sheer audacity and hypocrisy of these lawmakers.… Continue reading
Judge Dismisses Disney’s Lawsuit Against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and His Allies
As I read through the judgment of the recent lawsuit between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a flood of thoughts and opinions raced through my mind. It is undeniable that this case has sparked controversy and drawn strong reactions from people on both sides of the political spectrum. Before delving into my own personal insights, let’s take a closer look at the judge’s reasoning.
The judge concluded that Disney lacked standing to sue DeSantis and the Secretary of Florida’s Department of Commerce. The relief sought by Disney could only be applied to future harm, and the harm alleged by Disney either related to past actions or lacked evidence of DeSantis’s control over the oversight board.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood