Free speech debate intensifies after Charlie Kirk memorial and Kimmel suspension

Questions about the future of free speech in America are intensifying on both sides of the political aisle

(NBC)- Questions about the future of free speech in America are intensifying on both sides of the political aisle.

Tens of thousands gathered in Arizona for a public memorial honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed earlier this month. His wife, Erika Kirk, delivered an emotional tribute, saying, “I will miss him so much because our marriage and our family were beautiful.”

Former President Donald Trump also spoke, praising Kirk’s dedication to free expression. “It’s the right and inheritance of every free American, the greatest legacy of the Enlightenment and among the most treasured achievements of civilization. We will defend it at all costs,” Trump said.

But in the aftermath of Kirk’s assassination, new concerns about censorship have taken center stage. ABC indefinitely suspended late-night host Jimmy Kimmel after his comments about Republicans’ response to the murder, drawing sharp criticism from the FCC chairman and suggestions of potential action against the network’s license. Trump has since echoed similar remarks.

Lawmakers from both parties are pushing back. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) said, “The FCC was wrong to weigh in. And I’ll fight any, any, any attempt by the government to get involved with speech.” Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (D) added, “Censorship, and what we’re seeing from the federal government, only serves to further divide us and make us less safe.”

The debate comes as the Defense Department implements new restrictions on journalists, barring them from reporting even unclassified information without authorization. The National Press Club has condemned the move as a direct assault on independent journalism. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the policy, saying, “The press does not run the Pentagon. The people do.”