Recent remarks by former Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry have ignited a firestorm of controversy, drawing sharp criticism from figures like Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Kerry, speaking at a World Economic Forum (WEF) event on Green Energy, suggested that the First Amendment is a significant obstacle to combating what he described as "disinformation." His comments have sparked a fierce backlash, as his words appear to advocate for altering the Constitution in ways that many see as deeply troubling.
Kerry’s statement that the "First Amendment stands as a major block" to addressing disinformation has been perceived by critics as an outright challenge to one of America’s core constitutional principles. Kerry explained that disinformation, particularly when it comes from sources with an agenda, poses a grave threat and that the Democratic Party needs to "win enough votes" to enact changes. His focus on the First Amendment, however, has alarmed defenders of free speech, who argue that the very purpose of this amendment is to prevent the government from controlling the flow of information, no matter how controversial or unpopular.
John Kerry is saying he wants to violate the Constitution https://t.co/im1BJNlfNI
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 30, 2024
Elon Musk, CEO of X (formerly Twitter), was among the first to respond. Musk took to his platform, calling out Kerry for what he interpreted as a dangerous desire to undermine the Constitution. “John Kerry is saying he wants to violate the Constitution,” Musk posted, signaling his deep concern over the potential implications of Kerry's rhetoric. Musk followed up by agreeing with a sentiment shared by others, warning that the consequences of such thinking could be dire, especially if those who hold this view gain power.
Echoing these sentiments was Robert F. Kennedy Jr., another former Democrat who has since become an independent presidential candidate. Kennedy, a long-time advocate of free speech, responded bluntly: “John Kerry is correct.
The 1st Amendment DOES stand as a major roadblock to them right now.” For Kennedy, Kerry’s remarks underscore a broader and more worrying trend within the political establishment—a willingness to curtail constitutional protections in the name of combating disinformation.
Notably, Dr. Jordan Peterson also joined the chorus of disapproval, adding his characteristic sharp wit. “I don’t know how @JohnKerry can say such things without bursting into flames,” Peterson quipped, highlighting the shock many feel at the audacity of Kerry’s words.
Others, including political commentators and regular social media users, pointed out the gravity of a statement coming from a former Democratic presidential candidate who no longer appears to uphold the sanctity of the First Amendment. "John Kerry says the quiet part out loud," one commentator remarked, referring to how Kerry’s remarks openly reflect a desire to erode protections that have long safeguarded dissent in the U.S. political system. Another commenter added, “The 1A and the entire Bill of Rights was designed as a ‘roadblock’ against a tyrannical government. It’s a feature, not a bug.”
The criticism surrounding Kerry’s comments is not just about a single speech but about the broader implications for free speech and government overreach. Many are deeply disturbed that a high-ranking member of the political class would suggest that winning elections could give a party the power to alter constitutional freedoms. As one critic ominously noted, "When a man at the very top of the Democratic Party—no longer even pretends to believe in the First Amendment—watch and be afraid."