Campaigns bring up free speech question
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“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”
There it is, in black in white. The reason we’re all fortunate and privileged enough to say what we want to say in this country.
The Bill of Rights First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees us the rights to many things, but I’m focused this morning on the free speech we’re all given as individuals. We may not enjoy or even like some of the things our neighbors and others have to say but they’ve got the right to say it. A wise friend once told me that in this country, we have the right to agree to disagree. I agree with that.
Our election process was a bit harried with some negative stuff flying about here and there. The mailers were the toughest to endure from my perspective. Some displayed a somewhat humorous tone, some added offbeat pictures, most all were exclamatory, and none mention my voting record. But here’s the point: all of them displayed free speech.
There is more to the debate. Is free speech an individual right or a group right? Political Action Committees and political parties pay for positive and negative ads. Business associations, Montana Chiropractors, for example, and unions form PACs to sway elections.
As a legislator I have to endure negative attacks; it’s part of the package deal and I accept that, although I don’t like it. Our family has developed some thick skin over the years (it’s no wonder we’re called pachyderms, right?). But we’ve done it now for one simple reason: honor.
It is an honor to serve you as your elected official. I’m humbled to make it over the hurdle during this primary election and I know that I have a lot of work to do, to be able to represent all of the folks in our district.
But I’m up to the task. As always, I welcome your input. Call me at 849-6096 or e-mail jannataylor@montana.com. Remember I work for you.
