Ep. 253: Pam Bondi says hate speech is not free speech — is she right?

FIRE staff also take your questions on Charlie Kirk's assassination, President Trump's lawsuit against The New York Times, cancel culture, and more.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

01:42 Attorney General Pam Bondi's comments that "hate speech" is distinct from "free speech"

02:23 Is it OK for the Department of Justice to target people for "hate speech"?

05:42 How have “hate speech” laws played out overseas?

07:19 President Trump's response to Pam Bondi's “hate speech” remarks

08:50 Are “fighting words,” “incitement,” and “true threats” free speech?

11:22 What about doxxing?

15:15 Is it free speech to celebrate or condone the assassination of Charlie Kirk?

21:52 The termination of k-12 and university faculty in response to their commentary on Kirk's assassination

28:40 Is there a law that might implicate the Discord users who had reason to be aware of malicious intentions the shooter had towards Kirk ahead of the assassination?

30:05 The agency of speakers and those hearing their speech under the incitement standard

31:14 What are the differences between the free speech rights of citizens and non-citizens?

36:20 Does a court filing by President Trump as an individual in the New York Times lawsuit open him up to being deposed about a wide range of behaviors and actions?

37:40 What is the Trump's administration's legal strategy with the New York Times lawsuit?

39:24 What is FIRE doing about private employees being fired for their political commentary?

46:50 What is Charlie Kirk's legacy on free speech?

50:04 What is the difference between the academic protections enjoyed by tenured and non-tenured faculty members?

52:05 Does FIRE trust the Supreme Court to protect free speech?

56:12 How can we prevent capitulation from The New York Times?

59:20 How can ordinary people safely express their opinions on social media and promote civil discourse?

Joining us:

Ronnie London, general counsel

Sarah McLaughlin, senior scholar, global expression

Aaron Terr, director of public advocacy