Federal Court Expands Biden Admin Injunction
The Biden administration suffered another major defeat in federal court on Tuesday night as it continues to battle against government censorship of social media content. The case was originally filed by former Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt, who is now a Republican U.S. Senator. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who has taken up the legal battle, announced the latest ruling on the case.
The federal judge presiding over the case had previously ordered the Biden administration to stop contacting social media companies earlier this year, citing a violation of First Amendment rights. The White House, however, argued that censoring online speech is necessary for the government's role in combatting disinformation.
If you don't remember, the Fifth Circuit already handed down a court order blocking the Biden Administration from silencing disfavored viewpoints.
CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency housed in DHS) was originally not included in the Fifth Circuit's order.
— Attorney General Andrew Bailey (@AGAndrewBailey) October 3, 2023
However, Judge Terry Doughty dismissed this argument, stating that the Biden administration's actions were "the most massive attack against free speech in United States’ history." The judge continued, saying that the government's attempts to suppress alleged disinformation have "blatantly ignored" the First Amendment's protection of free speech.
Furthermore, Doughty emphasized that the issue of government censorship goes beyond political parties and ideologies. The right to free speech is a fundamental right for all Americans, regardless of their political beliefs. He stated that the Free Speech Clause in the First Amendment aims to protect an open marketplace of ideas where truth can prevail, rather than allowing for monopolization of speech by the government or private entities.
NEW: In Missouri v. Biden, The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has expanded the injunction to include CISA, an important decision.
This is a seminal case in the fight for free speech — I was proud to file it when I was Missouri's AG. https://t.co/yC41DlNfEU
— Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) October 3, 2023
This case has significant implications for the ongoing debate over censorship on social media. Critics of the Biden administration have argued that the government's involvement in censoring online content goes against the principles of democracy and freedom of speech. They believe that the government should not have the power to control or limit what people can say on social media platforms.
The ruling in this case is a significant victory for those defending the freedom of speech and the importance of an open marketplace of ideas. It sends a clear message to the Biden administration and other government entities that censorship of online speech will not be tolerated.
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey applauded the decision, stating that he will continue to fight against government censorship of online speech. He believes that this case is a crucial step in protecting the First Amendment rights of all Americans and upholding the principles of a free and democratic society.
The Biden administration has not yet responded to the latest ruling, but it is likely to appeal the decision. However, this case serves as a reminder that the right to free speech is a fundamental principle in the United States, and any attempts to restrict it will be met with swift legal action.
In conclusion, the Biden administration's attempts to censor online speech have been dealt a significant blow in federal court. The judge's ruling reaffirms the importance of free speech and sends a clear message that the government has no place in controlling what people can say on social media. This case will undoubtedly continue to be closely watched and debated as the battle for free speech on social media continues.
Karine Jean-Pierre openly admits the White House disagrees with a federal judge's decision to block the administration from working with Big Tech to infringe on Americans' First Amendment rights. pic.twitter.com/ppfcWoQ6JG
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) July 5, 2023