I fully support the notion that people upset about Rush Limbaugh’s characterization of Sandra Fluke as a slut and prostitute should petition his advertisers to pull their support for his radio program. So far it’s been an incredibly effective effort – he’s lost dozens of sponsors.
But Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan and Gloria Steinem take it too far when they call to have the FCC pull Clear Channel’s license.
Rush Limbaugh has the right to say what he wants. He just doesn’t have a right to get paid to be an asshole.
What does US law say about hate speech over the airwaves?
This is not a loaded question; on paper Canada doesn’t allow it, though I’ve only heard of it being enforced once and that was a clear abuse of the law. My suspicion is that US law does allow it, but I’m curious if there’s any extremes at which it causes action.
Laws prohibiting hate speech generally are unconstitutional in the US, unless they specifically defame an individual or group or incite people to riot or commit acts of violence. Proving it can be a real burden, too.
Aren’t we done yet with the tiresome, pompous, self-righteous Jane Fonda? I met her once. She and I were attending a meeting at a private home and she let her dog crap on our host’s lawn. When I tried to point this out to her, she gave me a withering stare. Eat it, Jane.
Peter, the rules governing public airwaves have allowed the FCC more room to maneuver around the 1st amendment, because the licenses are granted with conditions. The Supremes have rejected some restrictions, but not others. A newspaper or cable or satellite channel, or a blogger, seems to have unrestricted rights. But a broadcaster using public TV or radio airwaves has slight impediments.
The keyword here is “slight,” Glenn – and I think you’ll agree that Rush has toed that line, though he’s gotten dangerously close.
I think Rush is a vile, contemptible, hate-filled little troll. But so far, he’s said nothing so far over the line that the FCC needs to step in.
Whereas in Canada, I’m sure he’d be off the air by now: someone from [agency name, I'm drawing a blank] would have protested. Rush would have gone off on her, causing a cycle of fines, ending with him going off the air because nobody can afford to carry him.