“The blogosphere is truly the wild-wild West,” Republican strategist Matt Klink explained to Newsweek. “Unlike traditional journalism, there is nothing governing fair conduct by bloggers—anyone with a computer, online access and an opinion can express himself or herself.”
Klink said while SB1316 may aim to stifle disinformation, it could unintentionally cause the negative consequences raised by those like Ellis and Gingrich.
Although he thinks it would he highly unlikely for the legislation to make its way across DeSantis’ desk, GOP political consultant Alex Patton told Newsweek the bill would “almost universally” be seen as a “terribly unconstitutional move.” Thus, as a former lawyer, the governor would feel pressure to veto it in a nod to his constitutionalist side.
“DeSantis should step up and voice his opposition to the bill,” Klink agreed. By opposing it, Klink said, the governor would effectively stand up for free speech and robust public discussion, even if that speech about him and his staff may be inaccurate, unfair or downright false.
“Doing so would provide the governor with a significant advantage over politicians, particularly future Democrat opponents,” Klink said. “We’ve seen Democrats stifle free (and accurate) speech via social media regarding COVID-19. It’s an opportunity for Governor DeSantis to separate himself from the field.”
