The Feb. 10 Letter to editor in the Lake County Record-Bee from Darryl Smith ends with “Freedom of Speech is for all and must not be taken away.” I strongly agree. However, common sense and civility does dictate occasions where Freedom of Speech is curtailed.
Theaters routinely request that patrons turn off their cell phones and we have all glared at someone for talking too loudly during a performance.
Interrupting someone while they are speaking is considered rude and small children chastised for whining while mommy is on the phone.
Type of speech is controlled as well. We have laws against libel, slander and hate speech.
Truth in advertising and labeling laws protect consumers from bogus products.
The Board of Consumer Affairs can close down businesses for shady practices like charging for repairs not performed.
So, when discussing political elections, which are my opportunity to have my voice heard, I adhere to the one person, one vote concept. When unlimited amounts of money can be spent by special interests, my voice is drowned out. The slander, libel, hate speech, lies and distortions in the political ads during this Republican primary are an example of what happens.
Common sense and civility say “Stop it!”
Our elections, and the resulting government, are not for sale. Money is not the same thing as speech.
Unless, you believe the Founding Fathers intended “freedom of money” in the First Amendment protections, which sounds either elitist, or socialist.
Kate Schmidt-Hopper
Hidden Valley Lake
