Beer in the Headlights

U.S. companies "have a moral obligation to protect freedom of expression," said Sen. Richard J. Durbin, Illinois Democrat.

But, but, but... He also said this:

“It’s time to reinstitute the Fairness Doctrine,” said Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).

Fairness Doctrine? What's that got to do with censorship?

Censor: "to examine in order to suppress or delete anything considered objectionable"

Here's what the Fairness Doctrine is:

The Fairness Doctrine was a United States FCC regulation requiring broadcast licensees to present controversial issues of public importance in a manner deemed by the FCC to be honest, equitable, and balanced.

The FCC... The government. The government taking a look at content "of public importance" and censoring it or forcing companies to broadcast content counter to those views.

So how about the First Amendment?

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Idiots like Dick Durbin have a difficult time grasping the phrase, "Congress shall make no law..."

While I appreciate Senator Durbin's efforts to expand on issue of free speech in China, I'd like for him to respect those same rights here in the United States - even if he doesn't like what many of us have to say about him, his party or their politics.