Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Sen. Graham supporting free speech restrictions
Posted: 04.04.2011 at 10:17 AM
Updated: 04.05.2011 at 6:05 AM
15
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.)  / File
Photo

COLUMBIA (WACH) -- Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) is drawing national attention stemming from controversial comments he made this weekend seemingly calling on Congress to impose limits on free speech.

Graham said on CBS Face the Nation Sunday that the need to protect U.S. servicemembers overseas may justify limiting of political speech at home.

"I wish we could find some way to hold people accountable," said Graham. "Free speech is a great idea, but we're in a war. During World War II you had limits on what you could do if it inspired the enemy."

Graham's comments follow the burning of a Quran by Florida pastor Terry Jones, who said he organized the burning to "stir the pot." The burning of the Islam holy book sparked rioting in Afghanistan, where at least seven people had been killed over the weekend as protests erupted again Monday for the fourth straight day. 

Graham's comments about limiting free speech to discourage violent protests were quickly picked up by multiple national media outlets including PoliticoMediaite and The Atlantic.

Midlands residents also talking about Graham on Monday. 

"I would have to say this is probably one of the things that I agree with Sen. Graham on because there is a difference between hate speech and free speech," says Carla Trumper of Columbia.

"We have our own identities, so you should definitely be able to say whatever you want," adds Columbia resident Christopher Crosby.

What do you think about Senator Graham's comments? Is limiting free expression sometimes justified to protest U.S. troops overseas, or is the Senator's oath to preserve and protect the Constitution more important? Please leave your comments below.

Watch Sen. Graham's comments on CBS Face the Nation.

Free Speech Poll
What is your reaction to Sen. Graham's comments seeming to call for free speech restrictions?
Read and leave a comment

Popular Stories
Thumbnail
Arrest made in 'vicious beating' of teens in Richland County
WACH Fox News Center  |  1 hour, 56 minutes ago
Thumbnail
Sheriff's Deputies seeking suspects in gang beating
Drew Stewart  |  Yesterday at 5:04 PM  |  1 comment
Thumbnail
Swimming safely in man-made waters
Rob Starkey  |  Yesterday at 6:29 PM  |  1 comment
Follow Midlands Connect
Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below
Sign up to get alerts and updates for breaking news, severe weather, and deals:
submit
ADVERTISEMENT
Special Features
MoneyWACH
Financial tips & tricks from Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
MOJO Gallery
View and share your pictures from around the Midlands
Mission Midlands
A program from the Oliver Gospel Mission
ADVERTISEMENT