What happened: A federal judge decided that the ‘86-47’ flag displayed by demonstrators does not amount to a true threat. The phrase, linked to charges against former FBI director James Comey, cannot be forcibly removed.
Why it matters:
- The ruling upholds free speech protections for demonstrators using controversial symbols.
- It affects legal interpretations of what constitutes a threat in political protests.
MNN Take: The judge’s decision clarifies limits on government power to restrict protest symbols, emphasising the importance of context in assessing threats.
Sources: NYTimes US