So to Speak: The Free Speech Podcast Ep. 251: Free speech and 'the executive power' with Advisory Opinions
6 snips
Sep 4, 2025 
Join David French, a conservative legal commentator, and Sarah Isgur, a legal journalist and podcast host, as they delve into the delicate dance of presidential power and free speech. They explore the limits of executive authority, especially in the context of national security and social media. The duo also discusses the friction between free speech principles and institutional governance, highlighting how broad enforcement can chill public service. Plus, they touch on the evolving conservative legal movement amid the MAGA phenomenon.
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Podcast Origin Through A Political Dinner
- David French met Sarah Isgur through a potential third-party presidential effort and later connected at The Dispatch.
- They launched Advisory Opinions in 2019 and have grown it over six years through intensive prep work.
Judiciary Coverage Drives Influence
- Advisory Opinions fills a gap by covering circuit and district court decisions, not just SCOTUS.
- David French and Sarah Isgur credit timely judicial coverage for their podcast's growth and public value.
When Free Speech And Security Collide
- FIRE and Advisory Opinions sometimes disagree, especially on cases where First Amendment and other interests collide.
- Sarah calls the TikTok case primarily a national security issue distinct from typical speech disputes.
