free speech Archives - Liberty Justice Center

New evidence proves Biden administration pressured Facebook and Twitter to censor Americans

Author and data analyst Justin Hart filed new evidence in his federal lawsuit against Facebook, Twitter, and U.S. President Joe Biden documenting collusion between social media companies and the federal government to silence Americans.

Ahead of key Illinois Supreme Court elections, federal judge blocks state campaign contribution limits in judicial races – Chicago Tribune

This article by Dan Petrella was published October 17, 2022 on chicagotribune.org. With less than a month to go before voters determine the balance of power on the Illinois Supreme Court, a federal judge has temporarily blocked provisions in two recent Democratic-backed state laws that...

Judge blocks IL Dems’ law to block out-of-state donations to judge campaigns – Cook County

This article by Jonathan Bilyk was published October 17, 2022 on cookcountyrecord.com. A federal judge has blocked Illinois from enforcing its law forbidding anyone from outside Illinois from contributing to the campaigns of those seeking election as judges, as the federal judge indicated the law...

Judge orders suspension of two Illinois laws limiting judicial campaign contributions

With three weeks until the election, a federal judge in Illinois has blocked two laws restricting contributions in judicial campaigns. The laws restrict contributions only in judicial campaigns by prohibiting out-of-state donations to candidates and placing arbitrary limits on contributions to independent expenditure committees.

California to Doctors: Agree With Us or Shut Up – Wall Street Journal

The state empowers a medical board to punish ‘misinformation.’ The following article written by The Editorial Board appeared October 11, 2022 on wsj.com. California Gov. Gavin Newsom made a splash this summer by running ads in Florida that claimed “freedom is under attack in your state.” The...

Doctors sue California over law that restricts their COVID-19 advice to patients – Washington Times

The following article written by Sean Salai appeared October 5, 2022 on washingtontimes.com. Two California doctors have filed a federal lawsuit to overturn a new state law restricting the advice they can give patients about COVID-19. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, signed Assembly Bill 2098 into...

Newsom signs bill banning spread of COVID-19 “misinformation” by licensed physicians – KUSI News

The following article written by KUSI Newsroom appeared October 4, 2022 on kusi.com. SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – AB 2098, recently signed into law by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, qualifies spreading COVID-19 “misinformation” as unprofessional conduct and makes it punishable as such. Attorneys say AB 2098...

McDonald v. Lawson

Science is not static. By its very nature science is constantly evolving and the subject of unending debate. That was accepted in medical and academic circles prior to the politically driven reactions to COVID-19. However, over the past two years, politicians and public health officials...

Liberty Justice Center attorneys demand Twitter reinstate Justin Hart

Hart has been on the frontlines of the war against social media deplatforming and censorship, suing Big Tech and the Biden Administration To schedule an interview, contact Kristen Williamson at [email protected] or 773-809-4403.

Newly uncovered emails reveal how Biden Administration colluded with Big Tech to censor Americans

August 2022

Digital strategist Justin Hart and LJC's Daniel Suhr appeared on Fox News @ Night to discuss recent updates in Hart v. Facebook.

Federal lawsuit challenges new limits on contributions to Illinois judicial candidates – Chicago Tribune

This article by Dan Petrella was published August 3, 2022 on chicagotribune.org. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago by the conservative Liberty Justice Center on behalf of John Matthew Chancey, Fair Courts America and Restoration PAC, comes three months before Illinois voters...

Lawsuit challenges campaign contribution limits to judicial races in Illinois

Federal lawsuit says new restrictions banning out-of-state contributions violate free speech

Chancey v. Illinois State Board of Elections

Lawsuit challenges campaign contribution limits to judicial races in Illinois

‘Excessive Engagement in Politics’ Causing Mass Exodus From Nation’s Largest Labor Unions: Analysts – The Epoch Times

According to a survey of 3,000 potential union members conducted in 2021, "excessive engagement in politics is the number one obstacle" preventing them from joining a union

The Center Square again files First Amendment motion to open Tennessee judicial decision-making meetings – KPVI News 6

The Center Square has filed a second motion for a preliminary injunction to open the meetings of the state’s bench-bar advisory commission, the second such First Amendment motion in a case filed by the nonprofit’s executive editor.

Lawsuit: Tennessee illegally closes state judges’ meetings to public and press – Legal Newsline

A Tennessee state judiciary official faces a federal lawsuit for allegedly violating the First Amendment by closing meetings of state court judges to the public and press.

The Center Square sues to open meetings at Tennessee Judicial Conference – The Center Square

The executive editor of The Center Square is suing the Director of the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts in an attempt to open meetings at the upcoming Tennessee Judicial Conference to members of the public and the press.

Tennessee illegally closes state judges’ meetings to public and press

A Tennessee state judiciary official faces a federal lawsuit for violating the First Amendment by shutting the press and the public out of a state judges’ conference.

McCaleb v. Long

A free press is fundamental to our democracy. When government officials choose to block members of the press from witnessing events where decisions that affect the citizens are made, they undermine government transparency and the public trust. That is exactly what happened in Tennessee when...

What are Janus Rights? 6 Things Every Government Employee Should Know About Their Rights

April 2022

Employees of local, state or federal government entities have "Janus Rights" - the right to decide whether they want to join a public union.

Alaska lawsuit challenges new donor disclosure requirements – NBC Anchorage

Donors have sued over campaign finance rules enacted under a 2020 voter initiative, arguing the disclosure rules are burdensome and could lead to reprisals against them and their business interests in a climate of “cancel culture.”

Lawsuit challenges Alaska campaign disclosure rules – Associated Press

Alaska state officials face federal lawsuit over new requirements that violate free speech, privacy rights

Two citizen advocacy groups and four Alaskans filed a federal lawsuit, Smith v. Helzer, to stop Ballot Measure 2, which has the most anti-privacy election laws in the country.

Smith v. Helzer

Speech about elections, candidates, and issues lies at the core of the First Amendment’s protection for the marketplace of ideas. Those rights must be protected, but across the country they are continually undermined by new disclosure requirements. In Nov. 2020, Alaska adopted sweeping election law...

New York teacher unjustly suspended returns to the classroom with help from the Liberty Justice Center

A teacher who was placed on leave for recommending a video which encouraged young people to do their best and not to depend on others, is returning to her teaching role after help from the Liberty Justice Center.

Liberty Justice Center protects free speech rights of quarantined students

September 2021

Manhattan School District 114 has agreed to revise their "Parent Contract for Quarantined Student Livestreaming" to ensure that the free speech rights of parents and students are respected and protected.

President Biden, Facebook, and Twitter sued over online censorship

Social media influencer Justin Hart has filed a federal lawsuit against Facebook, Twitter, U.S. President Joe Biden, and the U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy for violating his First Amendment right to free speech.

Hart v. Facebook

The Liberty Justice Center is fighting back against free speech violations and censorship in Hart v. Facebook, a federal lawsuit filed against Facebook, Twitter, U.S. President Joe Biden and the U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy.

Liberty Justice Center statement on preliminary injunction order in Menders v. Loudoun County School Board

Last week, U.S. District Court Judge Anthony J. Trenga issued an order on the Motion for Preliminary Injunction in Menders v. Loudoun County School Board.

Ex-MassHealth official sues after being fired for comments in Milton Facebook group – Patriot Ledger

The five-count lawsuit names MassHealth, acting Assistant Secretary Amanda Cassel Kraft, former Assistant Secretary Daniel Tsai and Director of Diversity and Civil Rights Sonia Bryan. They are accused of violating Foley's First Amendment right to free speech and her state constitutional right to free speech. Foley is also alleging wrongful...

Ex-MassHealth employee sues after being fired for personal Facebook posts

A former MassHealth employee is suing the agency after she was fired for posting in a private Facebook group that she opposes reporting people who do not wear masks to law enforcement authorities. Denise Foley has filed a lawsuit against MassHealth for wrongful termination and...

Foley v. MassHealth

In January 2021, during the Coronavirus pandemic, Denise Foley, the Director of Internal and External Training and Communication, was terminated from her position at MassHealth after she used her personal Facebook account to criticize the practice, and encouragement, of turning in one’s neighbor for not...

Social media influencer retains Liberty Justice Center

LJC sues New York and New Jersey for violating free speech protections recently upheld by U.S. Supreme Court

The Liberty Justice Center, a national public interest law firm that fights for constitutional rights and free speech, has sued the Attorneys General of New York and New Jersey over the states’ unconstitutional policy requiring nonprofits to disclose private information about their donors.

Liberty Justice Center v. Grewal

In a federal lawsuit, the Liberty Justice Center is demanding New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal immediately abandon the state's disclosure requirements and align their requirements with the decision in Bonta, which shut down a nearly identical overbroad policy in California.

Liberty Justice Center v. James

On July 1, 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court reaffirmed the importance of donor privacy in protecting free speech in Americans for Prosperity v. Bonta. In that decision overturning California’s overreaching donor disclosure requirements, the justices delivered a win for the First Amendment, ensuring supporters of...

Taking Woke Education to Court — Real Clear Education

The following article by LJC attorney Daniel Suhr appeared on Real Clear Education on July 2, 2021 Free speech rights for students have always been a difficult issue because schools have unique needs and concerns. But whether it was black armbands to protest the Vietnam War or a picture...

Mahoney v. Facebook

The U.S. Constitution guarantees Americans the right to free speech. But recently, social media has been obstructing Americans’ First Amendment rights by suspending and even deleting the accounts of people who share content that they don’t want the public to see. The Liberty Justice Center...

3 Things to Know About Virginia Parents’ Lawsuit Against the Loudoun County School Board

1. Menders v. Loudoun County School Board is about racial equality and freedom of speech in schools Every student in Loudoun County, Virginia, regardless of their age or race, has the constitutional right to free speech and to be treated without discrimination due to their...

Why Critical Race Theory in Schools is Becoming a Free Speech Issue

Critical race theory in schools is making headlines across the country, and every American, regardless of their viewpoint, needs to understand how CRT programs can impact students’ constitutional rights. Students’ First Amendment rights don’t stop at the schoolroom door. Under the U.S. Constitution, every student—no...

Woke K-12 Education Goes to Court – Wall Street Journal

Represented by the nonprofit Liberty Justice Center, the parents and students sued the school board in federal court. They claim that Loudoun County Public Schools’ policies and programs to address “systemic racism” discriminate on the basis of race and viewpoint.

Virginia Parents Speaking Out Against CRT Face Backlash – Fox & Friends

Fox & Friends interviewed three Loudoun county parents, including Menders v. Loudoun County School Board plaintiff Patti Hidalgo Menders, about the backlash they've faced for speaking out against the way Critical Race Theory is being taught in schools.

Parents Sue Loudoun County School Board For Discriminating Against Students Based On Race, Political Views – The Federalist

Parents filed a lawsuit against Virginia’s Loudoun County school board, alleging that the board discriminates against students on the basis of their political beliefs and race.

Parents sue Loudoun County schools over equity programs – WTOP

Equity programs implemented by the Loudoun County public school system in Virginia have been controversial in the community, and they led to a lawsuit this week as a group of parents argue the programs are unconstitutional.

Virginia parents sue school district over alleged racial discrimination, free speech violations – FOX News

The controversy over "equity" is accelerating in Loudoun County where parents are suing administrators over initiatives that allegedly chill free speech and discriminate based on race.

Virginia parents sue school board over allegedly chilling students’ free speech – Washington Examiner

A group of Virginia parents filed a federal lawsuit against the Loudoun County School Board, citing allegations that it violated students' free speech rights.

Parents sue Loudoun County School Board for pushing children to voice support for controversial political views

A group of Loudoun County parents have filed a federal lawsuit against school leaders for violating students’ free speech rights.

Menders v. Loudoun County School Board

A group of Loudoun County, Virginia parents filed a federal lawsuit against school leaders for denying their students equal treatment and violating their right to free speech. The parents say the children will be discriminated against for simply expressing their opinion, or worse, for the...

Top Loudoun school officials defend equity work against charges of ‘critical race theory’ – The Washington Post

Top school officials in Loudoun County are again defending the district’s racial equity work, following complaints from some parents that Loudoun is indoctrinating students with “critical race theory” — allegations that have now spurred a lawsuit.

Indiana school superintendent illegally blocks parent on social media

To schedule an interview, contact Kristen Williamson at [email protected] or 773-809-4403. INDIANAPOLIS (June 2, 2021) — A Brownsburg, Indiana, mother has demanded the school district superintendent unblock her on social media, restoring her access to an important public forum. Kristin Ferklic has taken an active approach to education...

D.C. Mayor drops ban on wedding dancing after bride sues

The mayor of Washington D.C. announced today that she is lifting her ban on dancing at weddings. The announcement comes after a D.C.-area bride, Margaret Appleby, sued over the ban with the help of attorneys from the Liberty Justice Center and Hamilton Lincoln Law Institute.

Appleby v. Bowser

The District of Columbia currently allows dancing in exotic establishments, in Zumba and dance-studio classes, and in programs sponsored by the government’s Department of Parks and Recreation. However, the Mayor of the District of Columbia, Muriel Bowser, on May 1, 2021, used her emergency executive...

Liberty Justice Center discusses #1AWarrior on Glenn Beck

Principal Thorne’s experience illustrates the dangers of cancel culture. Thorne warned his students that anyone’s voice can be cancelled for any reason by a small group of people. And Shelby County Schools silenced him for that.

4 Ways to Cancel “Cancel Culture”

If we don’t stop the tide of censorship, no one will. Conservative voices are under attack. The Left has fully weaponized “woke-ism” and is using it to take down people who hold mainstream opinions and values. What is “cancel culture?” It’s people being censored on...

Liberty Justice Center reacts to Hinsdale District 86 “Equity Statement”

Patrick Hughes, president and co-founder of the Liberty Justice Center, notified a large school district in an affluent Chicago suburb that its newly adopted “Equity Statement” was not only flawed but may lead to violations of students’ and teachers’ Constitutional rights. The statement pledges “coherent,...

Do we have to let unions interrupt the work day? – LJC Blog

A case battles between the First and Fifth Amendments Early this year, LJC joined over a dozen other organizations in filing a friend of the court brief in support of California growers. The big question this case will answer: Is the right to organize...

Donor disclosure laws codify ‘cancel culture’ – LJC Blog

In many states, making a donation has a hidden price tag – your privacy, job and safety. Across the nation, public support for candidates and causes has resulted in lost jobs and contracts, ruined reputations and even death threats. In a culture that’s willing...

Liberty Justice Center and Principal Barton Thorne on Tucker Carlson Tonight

Liberty Justice Center discusses Principal Barton Thorne on Glenn Beck

5 Things to Know About Principal Barton Thorne and His Case Against Shelby County Schools

Even in Tennessee, Educators Who Don’t Toe the Leftist Line Can Be Punished

Principal Thorne has filed suit in federal court against the school district, arguing that it has violated his rights under the First and Fourteenth Amendments, as well as the contract between himself and the district.

High school principal Barton Thorne reinstated following civil rights lawsuit – ABC 4 News

The Cordova High School principal placed on administrative leave after a controversial video is now suing Shelby County Schools, accusing the district of violating his First Amendment and contractual rights.

Suspended Cordova High School principal is now suing Shelby County Schools over controversial “free speech” video – ABC Local 24

Lawsuit filed against SCS after principal placed on leave, violates free speech – WMC Action News 5

The principal of Cordova High School is suing Shelby County Schools. Attorneys for Principal Barton Thorne claim his right to free speech was violated after he tried teaching a lesson to his students about free speech.

Suspended Cordova High School principal files lawsuit against district – News Channel 3 Memphis

A Shelby County School principal is suing the district after his suspension last month. Barton Thorne of Cordova High School was placed on paid administrative leave after comments he made over the district’s virtual learning platform.

Tennessee principal sues Shelby County Schools for violating First Amendment rights

Principal Thorne’s attorneys have filed a federal lawsuit against the district for violating his First Amendment and contractual rights for placing him on administrative leave for discussing current events and free speech with students.

High school principal sues after being suspended for talking to students about free speech and tolerance

Thorne v. Shelby County Board of Education

Memphis-area principal Barton Thorne’s attorneys have filed a federal lawsuit against the district for violating his First Amendment and contractual rights for placing him on administrative leave for discussing current events and free speech with students.

Donor privacy is not just a “rich person’s problem” – LJC Blog

Donor privacy is a free speech issue for everyday Americans – and it matters as much as it did during the civil rights movement. Today’s cancel culture has shown that no one’s education, job, or platform is safe from being canceled if they have said,...

Clark v. State Public Charter School Authority

Las Vegas parent Gabrielle Clark filed a lawsuit against Democracy Prep Public schools for violating the First Amendment’s prohibition on compelled speech.

Lawsuit challenges university’s authority to track students through data collection – The College Fix

In the lawsuit Gutterman v. Indiana University, four undergraduate Indiana University Bloomington students are suing the university and its President Michael McRobbie over privacy violations and breach of contract. This article written by Laura Williamson appeared on December 8, 2020 on The College Fix. ...

Appeals court hears media access case against Evers – Wisconsin Public Radio

In MacIver Institute v. Evers, the Liberty Justice Center represents journalist Bill Osmulski and the John K. MacIver Institute. Osmulski was unconstitutionally excluded from the Governor of Wisconsin’s press conferences, media alerts and public events. The following article by Shamane Mills appeared on Wisconsin Public...

Wisconsin Think Tank Fights Press Blacklisting at Seventh Circuit – Courthouse News

Order issued in Illinois Vote By Mail case

Late this afternoon a federal judge ruled in the lawsuit challenging Illinois’ new Vote By Mail program that ballot harvesting is illegal and political operatives cannot collect mass amounts of mail-in ballots and submit them to election authorities.

Judge Urged to Keep Montana Political Spending Rule – Beaumont Enterprise

The lawsuit announced Wednesday asks a federal judge to strike down Montana’s nearly year-old policy that requires certain businesses seeking contracts with the state to disclose donors and spending on elections.

Ill. Republicans Urge 7th Circ. to Revive Bid for Large Groups – Law 360

Daniel Suhr of the Liberty Justice Center argued the party should receive the same exemption as religious groups because both religious and political speech rights "live at the heart of the First Amendment." But Judge Barrett pushed back on that stance, saying the amendment itself...

Cook County GOP Sues to Block State’s Enhanced Vote-By-Mail Efforts – The Chicago Tribune

The suit alleges that while "voting is a fundamental, constitutional right that is central to our democracy," Pritzker "violated this right by signing into law a partisan voting scheme that is designed to harvest Democratic ballots, dilute Republican ballots, and, if the election still doesn’t...

Lawsuit: Illinois Expanded Mail Voting is Partisan Scheme – AP News

"More than any other state in the nation, Illinois has a track record of both corruption and incompetence – and its residents have no reason to believe that the government can conduct an honest and accurate vote-by-mail in the upcoming election," Sean Morrison, chairman of...

Cook County Republican Party files lawsuit challenging Illinois’ new Vote By Mail program

The Cook County Republican Party has filed a federal lawsuit challenging Illinois' new vote-by-mail program, arguing that the validity of election results will be in doubt if this program moves forward.

Cook County Republican Party v. Pritzker

"Vote early and vote often" is a tongue-in-cheek joke for many Chicagoans, but Illinois' new Vote By Mail program brings up new concerns for the notoriously corrupt and mismanaged state.

Leader of free speech law firm speaks out against cancel culture at Marquette University

Hughes warns that Marquette University should not discriminate based on political views or free speech expressions. This discrimination runs afoul of Marquette’s principles and could put the university’s federal funding at risk.

Republicans to appeal judge’s ruling on Gov. Pritzker’s gatherings ban

“Today’s order is disappointing but we are confident in our argument in favor of political parties’ right to equal treatment to exercise their First Amendment rights. We are immediately appealing the decision,” said Patrick Hughes, president and co-founder of the Liberty Justice Center.

Illinois Right to Life Files Federal Lawsuit Against Gov. Pritzker – WGEM News

Illinois Right to Life v. Pritzker challenges Illinois Gov. J.B Pritzker’s ban on gatherings of more than 10 people. The lawsuit highlights the arbitrary nature of the Executive Order as some groups can gather while other groups face restrictions. The lawsuit petitions the court to...

Illinois Anti-Abortion Group Sues Pritzker, Claims COVID-19 Gathering Limits Unconstitutional – The Chicago Tribune

Illinois Right to Life v. Pritzker

Illinois Gov. Pritzker willingly excuses certain organizations and First Amendment expressions from the limits in his executive orders, but not the rest of Illinois – including Illinois Right to Life.

Illinois Right to Life sues over ban on gatherings

To schedule an interview, contact [email protected] or 773-809-4403. CHICAGO (June 24, 2020) — Illinois Right to Life, the state’s largest nonprofit, pro-life organization, has filed a federal lawsuit against Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over his limits on gatherings and overreach of his executive powers. Illinois Right to...

UPDATE: Illinois Governor Backs Down, Reinstates Chicago Radio Host Previously Banned From COVID Briefings – Townhall

Veteran Chicago journalist Amy Jacobson and the news station she reports for, Salem Media, filed a federal lawsuit against Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker after he announced Jacobson was no longer allowed at his media briefings. The lawsuit, Salem Media of Illinois, LLC v. Pritzker, was...

Illinois GOP Sues Gov. Pritzker Over Ban on Large Gatherings – WTTW News

Illinois Republican Party v. Pritzker challenges Illinois Gov. J.B. Prtizker’s ban on gatherings of more than 10 people. The lawsuit highlights the arbitrary nature of the Executive Order as some groups can gather while other groups face restrictions. The lawsuit petitions the court to allow...

Daniel Suhr Discusses Illinois Republicans Suing Gov. Pritzker Over Gathering Ban on WGN – WGN

The Illinois Republican Party and three local party committees sued Gov. Pritzker over his executive order banning group gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. While Gov. Pritkzer has allowed groups he favors to gather and protest without consequence, other political activities are halted. Daniel Suhr, senior...

GOP Sues Pritzker Seeking Exemption From 10-Person Limit – AP News

Illinois Republican Party Sues Dem Governor Pritzker Over Right to Assemble During Coronavirus Lockdowns – Fox News

State GOP: Ban On Political Gatherings Violates Free Speech – Chicago Daily Law Bulletin

Illinois GOP Sue Over State’s Ten-Person Gathering Cap – Bloomberg Law

Calling Gov. J.B. Pritzker an ‘Unaccountable King,’ Illinois GOP Sues Over 10-Person Gathering Limit – The Chicago Tribune

Illinois Republican Party Sues Pritzker Over Right For Political Groups to Assemble During Pandemic – Chicago Sun Times

In response to federal lawsuit, Illinois governor invites Salem journalist Amy Jacobson back to his press briefings

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has invited Salem Media journalist Amy Jacobson back to his press briefings in response to a federal lawsuit filed against him and his press secretary.

Republicans sue Pritzker over ban on gatherings

The Illinois Republican Party and three local Republican party committees have filed a federal lawsuit against Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker over his ban on gatherings of more than 10 people.

Illinois Republican Party v. Pritzker

This lawsuit highlights the selectivity and arbitrary nature of Pritzker’s Executive Order regarding group gatherings. While Gov. Pritzker grants carve-outs to organizations he likes, other groups are limited to gatherings of 10 people.

Feder: WIND’s Amy Jacobson Suing Pritzker Over Ban From Media Briefings – Daily Herald

It’s On: Salem Sues Pritzker For Banning Radio Host That Broke Story On Pritzker Family’s Travels – Hot Air

‘Principle of It’: Mark Janus Fights to Get Union Dues Back After Supreme Court Win – The Washington Times

The excerpt below is from an article by James Varney that appeared May 31, 2020, on The Washington Times. The 2018 ruling known simply as Janus freed nonunion public employees from being forced to pay union dues, which the unions called “fees.” Mr. Janus...

Reporter Sues Pritzker in Federal Court to Gain Access to News Briefings – The Center Square

Salem Media Files Lawsuit Against Illinois Governor for Barring Radio Host from COVID Press Briefings – Townhall

'"I think they'd been looking for an excuse to get rid of me...All I want is to get back back in that press room. I've been asking questions in this town since 1996,' she says."

Salem Media, veteran journalist Amy Jacobson sue Illinois governor over exclusion from press briefings

Amy Jacobson, a journalist for Salem’s AM 560 The Answer in Chicago, broke news that the governor’s family had traveled to Wisconsin amid a statewide “stay-at-home” order. Now she is banned from the governor’s daily press briefings.

Salem Media of Illinois, LLC v. Pritzker

Beginning in March 2020, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker held daily press conferences to update and answer questions from news media regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Jacobson has been a regular and active participant in the Governor’s COVID-19 press conferences. Amy Jacobson is a veteran reporter who has...

Federal judge strikes down NJ ‘donor disclosure’ law

(Mar. 11, 2020) In a major victory for free speech rights, a federal judge in New Jersey has permanently struck down a controversial law that violated the privacy of Americans.

Coming for the Lawyers – National Review

(Feb. 20, 2020) Charles Dickens recited a familiar complaint about lawyers in Bleak House when he wrote, “The one great principle of the English law is to make business for itself.”

The Northwoods River News: Group suing Evers says interview contradicts his legal arguments

January 2020

According to the Liberty Justice Center, while Evers’ attorneys have defended their restrictions on the MacIver reporters in court, Evers himself made statements recently on FOX11 that were contrary to those arguments.

The John Muir Show: LJC discusses Gov. Tony Evers’ lack of transparency

January 2020

Daniel Suhr of the Liberty Justice Center appeared on The John Muir Show to discuss his representation of the Wisconsin MacIver Institute in their lawsuit against Wisconsin governor Tony Evers’ lack of transparency. Hear the full interview.

The Center Square: Gov. Evers’ comments contradict his own attorneys in reporter-restriction lawsuit

January 2020

This article was written by Bruce Walker and originally appeared in The Center Square on Jan 10, 2020. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers granted an interview to Fox 11 on Sunday in which he stated the MacIver News Service is granted equal access to his administration’s...

Gov. Evers’ FOX 11 interview conflicts with his legal arguments in MacIver’s press access case

(Jan. 10, 2020) Liberty Justice Center encourages the governor’s team to adopt the openness to press that Evers conveyed in the interview.

FOX 11 Investigates ‘freedom of the press’ lawsuit facing Gov. Evers

January 2020

This article first appeared January 5, 2020 on Fox 11 News. MADISON (WLUK) — Gov. Tony Evers faces more than just Republicans legislators with a different agenda. A journalist at one conservative think tank in Wisconsin filed a lawsuit against Evers this past year for...

Statement: Federal judge issues order in Montana donor privacy challenge

(Jan. 2, 2020) Today, a federal judge issued an order in the lawsuit Illinois Opportunity Project v. Bullock. The lawsuit challenges an executive order Gov. Bullock issued in 2018.

Groups Sue Toulouse Oliver Over Donor Disclosure – Santa Fe New Mexican

The Albuquerque-based Rio Grande Foundation and Illinois Opportunity Project argue that a new state law requiring stricter financial disclosure requirements for political issue advertisements is unconstitutional.

Both Sides Brandish First Amendment in Battle over Rhode Island Donor Disclosure Law – Boston Globe

Both sides enlist the First Amendment to make their case. Both sides talk about freedom of speech and the marketplace of ideas. But the two sides draw diametrically opposed conclusions.

Nonprofit groups challenge New Mexico disclosure law for violating free speech, privacy rights

SANTA FE, N.M. (Dec. 13, 2019) – Today two nonprofit organizations filed a federal lawsuit challenging New Mexico’s new overreaching donor disclosure law. The law limits free speech and privacy rights, and puts at risk the individuals who support nonpartisan advocacy groups. Every American has...

Rio Grande Foundation v. Oliver

In New Mexico, if you want to support a nonprofit, nonpartisan group that works on issues, such as free speech or the environment, you must be willing to forfeit your privacy. State law requires all nonprofit issue-advocacy groups to report their donors to the government....

Nonpartisan advocacy groups challenge Rhode Island disclosure laws for violating free speech, privacy rights

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Nov. 22, 2019) – Yesterday two issue advocacy groups filed a federal lawsuit challenging Rhode Island’s stringent donor disclosure law which limits free speech and privacy rights, and puts at risk the individuals who support advocacy organizations. Every American should feel free to...

The Gaspee Project v. Mederos

Every American should feel free to speak out and support causes they believe in, without fear of retribution or retaliation. But in Rhode Island, speaking up comes at a price: your privacy. State law requires anyone who donates more than $1,000 to a nonpartisan, issue...

New Jersey donor disclosure law faces more roadblocks; advocacy groups welcome court’s scrutiny, skepticism over overreaching law

TRENTON, N.J. (Oct. 24, 2019) – A new court order has put the brakes on more facets of New Jersey’s controversial donor disclosure law – welcome news for advocacy groups who feared the overreaching law would stifle their free speech rights. The court order issued October...

New Jersey election officials sued over violation of free speech, privacy laws

CAMDEN, N.J. (Sept. 12, 2019) – A lawsuit filed today against New Jersey election officials aims to strike down a new state law that puts at risk individuals who support certain advocacy organizations. In June, Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law a proposal known as...

Illinois Opportunity Project v. Holden

In June 2019, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law a proposal known as S150. The law places reporting and disclosure requirements on 501(c)4 and 527 advocacy groups, but not on business groups or unions. The organizations identified by the law must now register...

Conservative Group Challenging Montana Campaign Order – KULR8 News

LIberty Justice Center is challenging an executive order that requires organizations in Montana that receive large state contracts to report political contributions that exceed $2,500, even if those disclosures aren't required under federal election laws.

Free Market Group Sues Bullock Over ‘Dark Money’ Rule – Montana Public Radio

Group Files Challenge to Bullock’s Executive Order on ‘Dark Money’ and State Contracts – Helena Independent Record

One of the hallmark messages of Montana Gov. Steve Bullock's campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination is the subject of a lawsuit filed by the Liberty Justice Center this week in U.S. federal court in Helena.

Montana Governor Steve Bullock sued over violation of free speech, privacy laws

HELENA, Mont. (Aug. 28, 2019) – Americans’ right to support causes they believe in without fear of retaliation is at the center of a lawsuit filed today against Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and the head of that state’s procurement bureau. The lawsuit centers on an...

Illinois Opportunity Project v. Bullock

Americans’ right to support causes they believe in without fear of retaliation is at the center of Illinois Opportunity Project v. Bullock filed August 27, 2019, against Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and the head of that state’s procurement bureau. In 2018, Governor Bullock issued an...

Democrat Governor Excludes Conservative News Service From Media List – The Daily Signal

This article was published by The Daily Signal on Aug. 22, 2019. It discusses the MacIver Institute v. Evers case filed by the Liberty Justice Center on August 6, 2019. When two reporters showed up at the Wisconsin governor’s office in February for a press briefing on...

Wisconsin Governor Sued for Barring Conservative Journalists from Briefing – Fox News

A conservative think tank in Wisconsin is suing the state’s governor, Tony Evers, amid allegations that his administration has denied journalists working for the group’s new service access to a budget press briefing and refused to add its reporters to the governor’s press list.

Conservative MacIver Institute Files Federal Lawsuit against Tony Evers Over Press Access – The Cap Times

This article was written by Briana Reilly and originally appeared in The Cap Times on Aug 7, 2019. The conservative MacIver Institute has filed a lawsuit against Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, alleging his office has excluded the outlet from media events. The suit, filed in federal...

Conservative Group Sues Tony Evers in Federal Court Over Media Access – Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

This article was written by Molly Beck and originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Aug 7, 2019. MADISON – A conservative group alleges Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has violated its writers’ rights to free speech and equal access by not notifying them about the...

Conservative Think Tank Sues Wisconsin’s Evers Over Access – AP News

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A conservative think tank has filed a federal lawsuit against Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, alleging he violated the First Amendment rights of staff members who were denied access to a press briefing and kept off an advisory list sent to...

MacIver News Service sues Gov. Evers for equal access

A Wisconsin-based research and news outlet is suing Gov. Tony Evers for excluding its journalists from press briefings and refusing to provide them with press material that is shared with other news outlets.

MacIver Institute v. Evers

Bill Osmulski is a seasoned Capitol news reporter for the John K. MacIver Institute for Public Policy, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and news service based in Madison, Wisconsin. As credentialed members of the Capitol press corps, Osmulski and other MacIver News Service reporters regularly have...

Press Release: Liberty Principles PAC files lawsuit to suspend campaign contribution limits

CHICAGO (July 20, 2018) – Today Liberty Principles PAC filed a lawsuit asking a federal district court to immediately suspend Illinois’ campaign contribution limits for ”independent expenditure” groups in state races in which contribution limits have been eliminated for individuals and other groups.

Dan Proft v. Kwame Raoul

Individuals, corporations, unions and political parties can give unlimited amounts of money to political candidates, but independent expenditure groups cannot, creating an uneven playing field.

Judge: Cannabis Companies Can Make Campaign Contributions – Associated Press

Mar. 31, 2017 Illinois’ medical marijuana companies, operating in an industry abounding with rules, now have one less regulation they have to follow. The Chicago Tribune (http://trib.in/2optGrA) reports that a federal judge ruled last week that a provision preventing cannabis companies from making campaign contributions...

First Amendment Victory Over Ban on Political Contributions from Medical Marijuana Businesses in Illinois – Reason

Mar. 24, 2017 The state of Illinois enacted in 2013 a pretty blatantly unconstitutional law forbidding businesses engaged in (legal) medical marijuana sales or growing from contributing to political campaigns, in effect either directly or via a PAC (though only the latter was literally codified)....

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