Condemning attempts to use Federal regulatory power or litigation to suppress lawful speech, particularly speech critical of a political party or the President of the United States, and warning against the rise of authoritarianism.

Sponsor: Yassamin Ansari (Democratic-AZ)September 19, 2025

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In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

House would condemn efforts to silence speech critical of leaders and warn against authoritarian tactics.

The House of Representatives would formally condemn attempts to use government power or lawsuits to silence people who criticize political parties or the President. It would also warn that such actions threaten democracy and reaffirm its commitment to protecting free speech for all Americans. This resolution serves as a strong statement of the House's position, rather than changing laws.

What Would Change

Today, the First Amendment protects free speech, but there have been public calls and reported actions by some officials to use government power or lawsuits to silence critics. If this resolution passes, the House of Representatives would formally condemn these actions and reaffirm its commitment to free speech and a free press. It would also call on public officials and agencies to protect free expression, though the resolution itself does not change existing laws.

Key Provisions

Condemns using government agencies and lawsuits to silence lawful speech critical of any political party or the President.
Warns that suppressing lawful speech echoes authoritarian tactics and threatens American democracy and freedoms.
Reaffirms commitment to protecting free speech and a free press for all individuals.
Calls on all public officials to avoid using their power to pressure media organizations or individuals into censoring speech.
Urges the Department of Justice, Federal Communications Commission, and other agencies to safeguard free expression.
Affirms that independent media and the ability of Americans to criticize their government are essential for democracy.

View on Congress.gov

HRES 748 · 119th Congress · September 19, 2025 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 8/10

Condemning attempts to use Federal regulatory power or litigation to suppress lawful speech, particularly speech critical of a political party or the President of the United States, and warning against the rise of authoritarianism.

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity