WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a series of cases involving free speech and social media this year. One case in particular, Murthy v. Missouri, has drawn attention as it revolves around President Joe Biden’s administration urging platforms like Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook to remove posts spreading misinformation about the pandemic and the 2020 presidential election.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, and five social media users are bringing the lawsuit, arguing that the government exceeded its authority and violated constitutional free speech rights by censoring posts it disagreed with. Ahead of the Supreme Court hearing, Governor Landry expressed hope that the court would recognize the government’s lack of power to coerce and silence social platforms.
During the oral arguments, Justice Samuel Alito highlighted emails that displayed what he referred to as “constant pestering” by White House staff for meetings with social media sites, suggesting that the government treats these platforms like subordinates. However, other justices expressed skepticism. Some questioned the lack of evidence in the case and whether Landry and the social media users could actually prove government involvement in the removal of posts. Justice Brett Kavanaugh pointed out that social media platforms regularly reject government requests as well.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett cautioned against setting a precedent that prevents the government from encouraging platforms to remove problematic posts, as she emphasized the potential unintended consequences. The Supreme Court is expected to rule on this case in June. This is just one among the five cases concerning free speech and social media that will be heard by the court this year.
In a world where social media plays a prominent role in public discourse and information dissemination, the outcome of these cases could have significant implications for the future of free speech online. The court’s decision will impact not only the rights of individuals but also the power of the government to regulate and influence social media platforms. As this legal battle unfolds, many are closely watching to see how the Supreme Court will navigate the complex intersection of free speech, technology, and the government’s role in shaping online content.