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@ NOSTRPUNK
2024-10-20 12:49:07The Growing Threat to Free Speech on Social Media
In a recent CNN interview, Hillary Clinton made alarming statements about the need for social media companies to moderate content, warning that without such measures, "we lose total control"[1]. This rhetoric is part of a broader push by some Democrats to increase censorship and control over online platforms under the guise of combating misinformation.
Clinton's comments went beyond mere content moderation, as she advocated for the repeal of Section 230, a crucial provision that protects online platforms from liability for user-posted content[1]. This move would fundamentally alter the landscape of free speech on the internet, potentially forcing platforms to aggressively censor user content to avoid legal repercussions.
The former Secretary of State even suggested that Americans could face civil or criminal charges for certain social media posts[2]. While she specifically referred to those allegedly paid by foreign agents to spread propaganda, such a precedent could easily be abused to target political dissent or unpopular opinions. This approach stands in stark contrast to the principles of free speech enshrined in the First Amendment.
Clinton's statements are not isolated incidents. Other prominent Democrats, including Vice President Kamala Harris, have also expressed support for weakening Section 230 and increasing government control over online speech[6]. This trend suggests a coordinated effort to reshape the digital public square in ways that could severely limit free expression and open debate.
As we approach the 2024 election, it is crucial to remain vigilant against attempts to stifle free speech under the pretext of fighting misinformation. While addressing genuine foreign interference and harmful content is important, we must be wary of solutions that grant excessive power to government or tech companies to determine what constitutes acceptable speech online.
Sauce: I am the sauce. But I also would credit:
[1] Hillary Clinton says social media companies must moderate content ... https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/hillary-clinton-says-social-media-companies-must-moderate-content-or-we-lose-total-control-ripped-by-tulsi-gabbard-101728181956987.html [2] Fact check: Did Clinton call for jail over misinformation? - DW https://www.dw.com/en/fact-check-did-clinton-call-for-jail-over-misinformation/a-70279863 ncy ... https://oversight.house.gov/release/mace-calls-on-biden-harris-administration-to-provide-transparency-on-current-censorship-efforts-to-interfere-in-the-2024-election/ [4] Hillary Clinton Discusses Civil or Criminal Penalties for ... - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA1VBCeJV3A [5] Claims That Social Media Endangers Democracy Are Mostly ... https://itif.org/publications/2023/09/05/claims-that-social-media-endangers-democracy-are-mostly-misinformation/ [6] Hillary Clinton Wants To Repeal Section 230 - Reason Magazine https://reason.com/2024/10/07/hillary-clinton-wants-to-repeal-section-230/ [7] Hillary Clinton warns that allowing free speech on social media ... https://nypost.com/2024/10/06/us-news/hillary-clinton-warns-that-allowing-free-speech-on-social-media-means-we-lose-control/