politics
Federal judge bars removal of protest signs near White House
A federal judge ruled that a protest group's signs and flag are protected by the First Amendment. The decision prevents the National Park Service from revoking the group's demonstration permit based on the content of its displays.
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A federal judge ruled that signs displayed by Accountability NOW USA near the White House are protected speech under the First Amendment.
Background of the dispute Accountability NOW USA sued the National Park Service after officials asked the group to remove its flag on May 27. The American Civil Liberties Union's Washington, DC, chapter represented the group in seeking a preliminary injunction.
The judge rejected arguments that the signs were obscene or constituted a true threat. The order permanently prohibits the Trump administration from restricting the displays or similar ones in the future. An organizer with Accountability NOW USA said the group would continue to call for the president's impeachment, conviction, and removal from office.
A Department of the Interior spokesperson stated that flying a flag that is a threat to the Office of the President should not be permitted under any administration.
