History has examples of freedom of speech and press that were abused by politicians to accomplish an agenda that resulted in serious consequences. The Weimar Republic constitution in Germany guaranteed freedom of speech and press in the 1920s. With the rise of Hitler, this guarantee was questioned, as many feared the loss of the republic. However, it was deemed necessary to abide by the constitution and allow fascist speech. We know the end result. Once in power, Hitler quickly abandoned freedom of speech and press.
We have been in the same dilemma as Germany for many years now. We have been allowing Trump’s fascist speech to go unchecked, mostly because it has not been recognized as fascism. Those of us whom have studied fascism and its origins; long term; clearly see that Trump is selling fascism, masquerading as national revival. Print, social and TV media must recognize what they are allowing and how that threatens our republic. Freedom of speech should not be sacrosanct, but pragmatic.
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Steve Rasmussen
Foothills
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