The restriction of debate, whether by a repressive government or an intolerant society, invariably hurts those who lack power and makes everyone less capable of democratic participation.

House Democrats are again using the threat of bad publicity and harassment to send a message that engaging in political advocacy will be punished. The timing is no coincidence as the U.S. enters election season.

“It is shocking and misguided for Mayor Lyda Krewson of St. Louis, to broadcast the addresses of those who dare to express a different viewpoint on an issue of public concern. It serves no apparent purpose beyond intimidation.”

“The spirit of democracy depends on providing citizens the opportunity to talk through their differences. It cannot survive if citizens are too fearful to divulge what they really think.”

Anger at the killing of George Floyd has spurred useful reflection about race and perhaps some important police reform. But the political and cultural forces have transformed in recent weeks into something far less healthy—a ferocious campaign of political conformity sweeping across American artistic, educational, business and entertainment institutions.

When a Twitter mob realized they were incorrectly targeting an individual for a crime he didn’t commit, that didn’t stop them from continuing to harass him for his political beliefs.