Freedom of expression is a core value of American democracy. From the founding through many wars and protests to today’s social media platforms, the First Amendment’s free speech protections have been debated and challenged in every generation. Now, a poll by the University of Virginia shows that a growing number of Americans believe the government should restrict certain speech.
Forty-seven percent of Biden supporters and 35% of Trump supporters said the government should regulate or restrict the expression of views considered discriminatory or offensive.
The latest poll comes as the volume of the free speech debate may be at its loudest in decades.
Calls for social media platforms to censor certain speech have been met with much friction, with some saying censorship has gone too far.
Elon Musk purchased Twitter, now known as X, to expand free speech around the globe. In his effort, calls for Musk to censor hate speech on his platform have grown louder, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urging Musk to counter the antisemitic speech on the platform.
The freedom of expression debate also lives on college campuses, as some universities have banned or disinvited certain speakers from campus. In September, freedom of speech rankings among colleges in the U.S. had Harvard University in last place.
Americans are also increasingly distrustful of political opponents, and they willing to approve of violence against them.
Nearly 70% of voters who support Trump and Biden believe that electing officials from the opposing party would result in lasting harm to the U.S.
Forty-one percent of Biden supporters and 38% of Trump supporters said using violence to stop the other party from taking power would be acceptable.
This leads to an electorate weary of the current system; 31% of Trump voters and 24% of Biden voters now agree that “democracy is no longer a viable system, and America should explore alternative forms of government to ensure stability and progress.”
More than 40% of Trump voters and nearly one-third of Biden voters support red or blue states seceding from the union.
As America heads into the 2024 election year amidst wars, an immigration crisis, government showdowns, and more, at least a quarter of respondents on both sides said elections should be suspended in times of crisis.