Why are Republicans always going on about their freedom of speech while they're telling Democrats to shut-up?

Question

Just what IS their idea of "free speech" anyway?

Answer 1

This is a pattern that you saw a great deal of prior to the beginning of the Bush era--and it has resurfaced recently.

The point is moral intimidation--it goes along with their cant about "moral values." The idea is simple--if you disagree with their political demands, they try to label you as "immoral, unpatriotic, " etc. And if anyone criticizes them--theyn they accuse that person of "trying to limit their right of free speech."

It doesn't work that way, of course. They can say whatever they like. But--the revers holds true. If someone disagrees with what they say, that person can also criticize it--saying what he/she wants. Thats also part of free speech.

But the neocons do not want to engage in open debate--not if they can silence their opponents by intimidating them. And--here's one example: **** Cheney, rather than discuss policy on the war in a spirit of open discussion, has repeatedly labeled any criticism as "unpatriotic," or "encouraging the terrorists." That is not an honest response--it is a crude and cowardly attempt at intimidation.

The reason why you are seeing more of this in recent months is that the "by dissent your are trying to silence me" is basically defensive (the Cheney -type remarks are taking the offense, so to speak). And the neocons are ery much on the defensive--and getting more so by the day. :)

Answer 2

I guess free speech is their right to tell everyone else they don't have it.

In my opinion the right to free speech only exists in the constitution...not in practice. With free speech comes responsibility. I find it interesting how the various media outlets want the right to trash somebody's life for the purpose of news but then refuse to achknowledge the truth or the facts when they are presented.

Free speech isn't the right to propagate lies or unsubstantiated facts about others. The right to free speech which gets abused so often and twisted to meet the needs at the time (politics & Media for example), is about the freedom to say or write what you want, but does not give you the right to hurt others. Thats a Libertarian view (Libertarian's are not Liberals, Republicans or Democrats, but so what).

Answer 3

It is ironic isn't it that no matter what a Republican says to a democrat, it gets twisted. Yet, when a Democrat talks we know exactly what he/she is saying.
With freedoms, all freedoms come an iota of responsible rhetoric.
Most of the time Republicans get frustrated from Democrats parroting the Liberal biased media. Republicans really feel if a Democrat could think for themselves, there might be a chance to open the lines of communication.

Answer 4

While you clearly don't see things objectively enough to realize rudeness comes as readily from Democrats as Republicans...you also don't seem to understand that this freedom of speech applies to everyone..including those who say things you don't like.

Answer 5

You have to be kidding. If I was Cheney I would tell y'all to stuff it. Bush too but, they do their jobs despite the un=popular view. Propaganda. Look it up.

Explain when the Clinton's have now been outed for Media Matters and their relationship with Media mogul Rupert Murdoch is as thick as always. Plus donations from China. Add 10 million Hillary took from NY for her Senate run and put it into the early Presidential Race ??? Freedoms alright, alot taken you don't know it unless you read all the paper, all of the article.

As to our national security YOU and I don't need to know everything. Reality/fake TV has people all wanting more.
Yet that is so scripted like the WWF, can't u see that? pls?
I can't answer your question because it comes in my opinion without any research or for thought. Debate? You don't want one and I won't argue. Just said my Peace! Thanks.

Answer 6

Not all Republicans do that but to some, we should only practice freedom of speech when they agree with you.

Answer 7

Well what's your idea of free speech? I think both parties should shut up until they want to tell the truth and quit deceiving the American people

Answer 8

Republican, Democrat, Liberal, whatever; every group has its extremes. Maybe if we just opened our eyes for a second, we'd realize that maybe it's time for us to come together as a nation instead of as individuals, because the government relies on ignorance, mass media, and mis-information. Wake up and see that the government is rich and intend to stay that way with a little help from their 'friend'.

Answer 9

Democrats are the ones who are limiting freedom of speech they are trying to shut down talk radio because they say they dont support both sides (which is true) and are trying to appeal the fairness doctrine which basically states that you have to show both sides of a matter. But thanks for proving how retarted you liberals can be

Answer 10

I support free speech without qualification.

The more people speak, the easier it is to spot the dumbasses.

I learned that the first time Bush gave a public address.