Minnesota Governor Tim Walz sparked renewed debate about free speech and misinformation in 2022 when he declared that there is no guarantee of free speech when it comes to spreading false information or hate speech. During an appearance on MSNBC’s The ReidOut, Walz emphasized the need for penalties for those who spread disinformation about elections.
Host Maria Teresa Kumar asked Walz to address the growing concern of misinformation and its impact on the democratic process. Walz responded by highlighting the evolution of misinformation tactics, from minor “shenanigans” to more sinister attempts to intimidate voters and undermine the legitimacy of mail-in ballots. He stressed the importance of pushing back against these efforts and emphasized that there is no guarantee of free speech when it comes to misinformation or hate speech, particularly when it threatens the integrity of democracy.
Walz’s comments from 2022 resurfaced this week after former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton suggested that Americans who spread Russian propaganda should face consequences, including potential criminal charges. In an interview with MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow, Clinton emphasized the need to expose connections between Americans and foreign adversaries who seek to influence the US electoral process.
Clinton argued that while Americans have the right to vote as they choose, the country must take a firm stance against foreign interference in its elections. She advocated for a clear message to be sent to adversaries that attempts to influence American voters will not be tolerated.
