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Let Citizens United stand

“Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech,” says the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Ten clear, easily understood words without ambiguity or hidden penumbra inferences. Nor are they lacking in discernible intent.

Of course, this right is not absolute. There are circumstances that are actionable, such as certain threats, slanders or fallacious sworn testimony. Based on the cacophony of complaints regarding the Citizens United decision, corporate political advocacy should also be on this nefarious list.

Although there are increasing calls for legislation to circumvent the ruling, this rare originalist court decision is an improvement over the normal progressive standard of judicial or executive fiat. I must suggest that any such legislation also contain an equally clear prohibition against corporate taxation, as I recall something about no taxation without representation.

And, for good measure, corporations should not be subjected to administrative regulations if prohibited from any material participation. If you find these proposals preposterous I agree, but no more so than being held defenseless against swarms of soulless, parasitic bureaucrats.

If the alleged 99 percent are too partisan, stupid or lazy to investigate any well-financed yet fraudulent campaign, then vote accordingly. That is the real problem, isn’t it?

Gary Warren

Spokane



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