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1st Amendment and Free Speech/Freedom of Speech-Poilitical Campaign Signs

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Expert: - 4/29/2010


Question
Why is a political campaign sign for an individual not an issue placed on the ballot considered as Free Speech-is it not just a "plea" for employment ?

Example: Elect "John Doe" XYZ District www.forjohndoe-                     xyzdistrict.org

Answer
Hi Jim,

Firstly, even a "plea for employment" is considered free speech.  If someone on the street had a sign asking for work, that would be protected too.

Secondly, of course, elections are for more than creating jobs.  A key reason we have a First Amendment is to ensure that there is free and open debate on issues so that voters can make more informed decisions in deciding who will run the government.  Therefore, election messages are considered to be one of the most fundamental protections of the First Amendment.  Who we elect for political office has important ramifications far beyond who is getting paid for the job.

I hope this helps!
- Mike  

1st Amendment and Free Speech

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Michael Troy

Expertise

I will answer general questions regarding freedom of speech, petition, or religion. I specialize in cases involving public employment or education, as well as issues related to campaign finance. But I can`t give specific legal advice involving specific cases you might have.

Experience

As an attorney for the Center for Individual Rights, I worked on a number of free speech cases, including Rosenberger v. Univ. of Virginia, in which the Supreme Court upheld my clients' right to run a student newspaper without discrimination because of its religious conent. I also worked on White v. Julian, which protected the right of people to protest against a homeless shelter in their neighborhood.

I also worked for the Federal Election Commission on several cases regarding the right to participate in the election process.

Organizations
Former Attorney for Center for Individual Rights.

Publications
Washington Post
Washington Times

Education/Credentials
J.D. from Univ. of Michigan Law School

Awards and Honors
Truman Scholar

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