John Kerry, speaking at the World Economic Forum, called the First Amendment a “major block” to efforts aimed at stopping climate “misinformation.” He argued that alternative media outlets, which challenge mainstream climate narratives, have made it harder to reach consensus on climate action — action he insists is necessary despite science that contradicts his claim.
Kerry stated that, in the past, legacy media outlets served as referees, but the rise of alternative sources has undermined their authority. “The referees we used to have are gone, and people now self-select where they go for news,” Kerry said. He claimed that this shift has made it increasingly difficult to combat false information.
Kerry also emphasized that the First Amendment protects the very outlets spreading misinformation, making it nearly impossible to “hammer” them out of existence. He expressed frustration over the protections that prevent further regulation of these sources.
His remarks were met with criticism from those who believe that free speech should remain unencumbered, even when it involves controversial or unpopular opinions. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) noted that elite Democrats, like Kerry, dislike the Constitution because it protects rights they find inconvenient.
Kerry’s comments have reignited discussions over whether free speech should be limited when it comes to important issues like climate change. His detractors argue that any limitations would infringe on the core principles of American democracy.
