U.S. District Judge Mark Walker temporarily barred the DeSantis administration from intimidating and coercing television stations that air ads in support of the proposed Amendment 4, which would bar government interference in abortion.
- Isn’t it ironic that DeSantis would interfere with an amendment proposal about government interference?
BACKGROUND The Florida Department of Health sent a letter to two television stations warning them if they did not take down pro-Amendment 4 political ads, they would be committing a second-degree misdemeanor, which carries a sentence of up to 60 days imprisonment or a fine of up to $500. He said the ads – one of which was the Caroline ad below – were “categorically false” and a “sanitary nuisance.”
- The term “sanitary nuisance” is odd because it is a state law that usually regulates the improper disposal of human waste, garbage, or improperly built septic tanks.
‘FIRST AMENDMENT, STUPID’
Judge Walker’s ruling stops Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, the head of the Florida Department of Health, from acting against broadcasters the department has already threatened with criminal charges. The temporary restraining order remains in effect until Oct. 29.
- “Whether it’s a woman’s right to choose, or the right to talk about it, Plaintiff’s position is the same — “don’t tread on me,” U.S. District Judge Mark Walker wrote. “Under the facts of this case, the First Amendment prohibits the State of Florida from trampling on Plaintiff’s free speech. To keep it simple for the state of Florida, it’s the First Amendment, stupid.”
DOH ATTORNEY RESIGNS
The Miami Herald reports that FDOH attorney John Wilson, who sent the cease-and-desist letters, has resigned.
In his resignation letter, Wilson wrote, “A man is nothing without his conscience. It has become clear in recent days that I cannot join you on the road that lies before the agency.”
FDOH has hired two outside law firms to advise and recommend a legal course of action. Their contracts will cost taxpayers up to $1.4 million.
