Washington, D.C. (February 24, 2021) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today fought back against Left-wing attacks on a free press and the fundamental American right to freedom of speech. During today’s Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing, Rodgers said the following:

“In all my time on this committee, there has never been a more obvious direct attack on the First Amendment.  

“Elected officials using their platform to pressure private companies to censor media outlets they disagree with—that sounds a lot like actions from the Chinese Communist Party, not duly-elected representatives of the United States Congress. 

“Here we cherish free speech and a free independent press. We believe in dialogue and in the battle of ideas. Rather than censor and silence constitutionally protected speech, the answer is more speech. That’s the American way. 

“Now more than ever, we need to uphold the First Amendment.  

“It states, ‘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.’

“This is unique to us as Americans. It’s been fought for and defended all through our history for free expression without censorship from the government. 

“It’s foundational to our personal rights and liberties. So, we should all be troubled today on what appears to be an attack on the First Amendment by elected officials to coerce private companies to censor political speech. 

“Let’s give people hope in the Promise of America again—so they have the courage to be unique, creative, and live their lives without fear. We should all be publicly denouncing this censorship campaign on news that doesn’t fit a specific worldview. 

Click here to watch Cathy’s full opening statement.

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