DOJ Vows to Prosecute Threats of Violence, Not Protected ‘Hate Speech’
Attorney General Pam Bondi clarified her position on free speech and its legal limits in a post on X on Tuesday, addressing a backlash from some conservatives over her prior comments about “hate speech.” Bondi stated that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will pursue prosecution for speech “that crosses the line into threats of violence,” emphasizing that such actions are not protected by the First Amendment.
The Attorney General’s comments followed a public outcry and numerous firings across the U.S. of individuals who had celebrated the murder of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on September 10 in Utah.
READ: AG Pam Bondi, DOJ Eyes Office Depot In Kirk Poster Scandal Following Michigan Incident
In her post, Bondi explicitly stated, “Hate speech that crosses the line into threats of violence is not protected by the First Amendment. It’s a crime.” She added that the era of “the radical left normalize threats, call for assassinations, and cheer on political violence” is over.
Legal Boundaries of Speech
Bondi outlined several federal laws that criminalize specific types of threatening speech. These include threats to kidnap or injure another person, threats against public officials, members of Congress, or their families. She also noted that “doxing”—publicizing someone’s personal information with malicious intent—and “swatting”—making false reports to law enforcement to provoke a response—are punishable crimes.
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Bondi’s statement on Tuesday was intended to clarify remarks made during a Monday podcast with host Katie Miller, where she said, “We will absolutely target you, go after you, if you are targeting anyone with hate speech,” which critics, including Daily Wire commentator Matt Walsh and Babylon Bee editor Joel Berry, interpreted as a broad overreach against free speech.
A Promise to Uphold Freedom
In response to the criticism, Bondi reiterated her stance, connecting her resolve to the violent rhetoric surrounding Kirk’s murder. She condemned the celebrations of his death, which have led to consequences such as the suspension of a U.S. Army reserve officer.
“It is clear this violent rhetoric is designed to silence others from voicing conservative ideals,” Bondi said. “We will never be silenced. Not for our families, not for our freedoms, and never for Charlie. His legacy will not be erased by fear or intimidation.”
READ: South Carolina Rep. Mace Moves To Censure Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar Over Kirk Comments
The Attorney General’s office maintains that its focus is on criminal acts of threatening violence, not on political dissent or unprotected speech that does not meet the legal threshold of a threat.
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