Trump administration criticized for undermining free speech rights

The Trump administration is facing criticism for actions perceived as undermining the First Amendment's free speech protections. Critics argue that recent arrests and threats against individuals and organizations are attempts to silence dissenting voices. Columbia University has advised its noncitizen journalism students to avoid sensitive topics to prevent potential arrest, highlighting concerns about freedom of expression. This follows the detention of a student for speech deemed objectionable by the administration. Additionally, Trump’s executive order targeting the law firm Perkins Coie has raised alarms, as it appears to punish the firm for its political affiliations rather than any wrongdoing. A federal judge has blocked parts of this order, but the firm has already suffered significant business losses.