Freedom of Speech

                The topic of discussion for this Freedom Friday is the need to protect our Freedom of Speech.  In the recent “range war” over the grazing of Cliven Bundy’s cattle on BLM land, the federal government set up a “First Amendment Area.”  I was under the impression that Americans’ First Amendment rights cover the entire nation, not just an area that the federal government sets up.

                Brian Sandoval, the Governor of Nevada, contacted the federal officials about the way the BLM was conducting their work in Nevada.  “Most disturbing to me is the BLM’s establishment of a `First Amendment Area’ that tramples upon Nevadans’ fundamental rights under the U.S. Constitution.

                “To that end, I have advised the BLM that such conduct is offensive to me and countless others and that the `First Amendment Area’ should be dismantled immediately.

                “No cow justifies the atmosphere of intimidation which currently exists or the limitation of constitutional rights that are sacred to all Nevadans.”

                The federal government not only set up “First Amendment Areas” but ordered a “No Fly Zone” over the entire area.  This latter order infringes on the Freedom of Press.  How can news agencies cover the story if they are denied the freedom to move through the air?”

                Americans must understand that the government was using the Bundy ranch as a test to see how far they could push Americans and how many freedoms and rights could be taken.  I am grateful that Americans stood tall against greater fire power!