Democrats now defend free speech after activist's arrest

Democrats are now defending free speech after the arrest of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, despite their previous support for censorship during the COVID-19 pandemic. High-profile Democrats, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, criticized the Trump administration's actions against Khalil. Khalil, a lawful U.S. resident, received a temporary reprieve from deportation after a federal judge intervened. His arrest has prompted several Democrats to advocate for First Amendment rights, contrasting their earlier stance on censorship. Some lawmakers argue that the Trump administration's actions threaten political protest and free speech. This shift highlights the changing political landscape and the selective application of free speech principles among elected officials.