The “Online Freedom of Speech Act”, H.R. 1606, which will exempt the Internet from McCain-Feingold (as was the case in the 2004 election), is being considered by Congress today. If Democrats continue to oppose it, the FEC will pass court-ordered regulation that could affect the ability of websites like this one to use the authors’ First Amendment rights to legally comment on federal elections, which in turn could set a precedent for state regulation. It’s fascinating to watch Daily Kos folk tie themselves in knots over the inevitable repercussions of the evisceration of the First Amendment in McCain-Feingold and McConnell v. FEC while simultaneously trying to hold the idea that this sort of campaign finance regulation is a good thing. But it’s also important that some roadblocks be placed in the way of the slippery slope. If this isn’t persuasive, then consider the fact that the New York Times opposes the legislation. Call your Congressperson. (Rep. Hensarling Redstate post.)

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