Food for thought - Grand Juries
The Sutter County Grand Jury remarked:
“…but considering the attack that they must endure from the public, who have little or no knowledge of the entire issue is uncalled for."
Apparently they have missed an important legal concept. In a recent Third Appellate District decision (Williams v McMillin) I find this important quotation:
"The right to speak on political matters is the quintessential subject of our constitutional protections of the right of free speech. "
The court went on to say, "Public discussion about the qualifications of those who hold or who wish to hold positions of public trust presents the strongerst possible case for applications of the safeguards afforded by the First Amendment."
Lastly, the court noted "It is a prized American privilege to speak one's mind, although not always with perfect good taste, on all public institutions."
These are not new statements by the court. These are not new ideals. Why would a grand jury make demeaning statements towards a public who have a clear interest in the actions of their government?
Only time will tell.
“…but considering the attack that they must endure from the public, who have little or no knowledge of the entire issue is uncalled for."
Apparently they have missed an important legal concept. In a recent Third Appellate District decision (Williams v McMillin) I find this important quotation:
"The right to speak on political matters is the quintessential subject of our constitutional protections of the right of free speech. "
The court went on to say, "Public discussion about the qualifications of those who hold or who wish to hold positions of public trust presents the strongerst possible case for applications of the safeguards afforded by the First Amendment."
Lastly, the court noted "It is a prized American privilege to speak one's mind, although not always with perfect good taste, on all public institutions."
These are not new statements by the court. These are not new ideals. Why would a grand jury make demeaning statements towards a public who have a clear interest in the actions of their government?
Only time will tell.
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