Government

Vote & Comment: Should Supreme Court Allow Westboro Baptist’s Funeral Pickets?

I’m putting the poll right at the top — but before you vote read through the post and watch the video featuring Glenn Beck and Pat Gray’s disagreement on the issue.

First a set-up of what happened in court from our AP feed:

WASHINGTON (AP) — Supreme Court justices, in a rare public display of sympathy, strongly suggested Wednesday they would like to rule for a dead Marine‘s father against fundamentalist church members who picketed his son’s funeral — but aren’t sure they can.

Left unresolved after an hourlong argument that explored the limits of the First Amendment: Does the father‘s emotional pain trump the protesters’ free speech rights?

The difficulty of the constitutional issue was palpable in the courtroom as the justices weighed the case of Albert Snyder. His son died in Iraq in 2006, and members of a family-dominated church in Topeka, Kan., protested at the funeral to express their view that U.S. deaths in Afghanistan and Iraq are God’s punishment for American immorality and tolerance of homosexuality and abortion.

NBC News:

And now the debate between Glenn and Pat:

And now go back to the top and vote! Thanks.

Comments (413)

1 2 3 ... 12
  • cheezwizshabaz
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:21pm

    We don’t need more grease on the slippery slope. Any speech could then become illegal.

    Report Post »  
    • vennoye
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:01am

      I despise the fact that this had to be tried under Freedom of Speech. These people are really disgusting. Whatever god they are serving must be one that you have to look down at–it certainly is not one that you look up to.

      Report Post » vennoye  
  • capitalismrocks
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:19pm

    Its an insufficient choice poll, so I could only vote YES for upholding Free Speech, its the same thing that protects us protesting the President, or the Tea Party protesting Congress & the President, Gays protesting for rights, and going back to Republicans like MLK protesting for Civil Rights.

    I would have preferred a 3rd choice:

    Yes they have a right to free speech, but with a law that keeps them 1,000 ft from the outer perimeter of the Cemetery.

    Report Post » capitalismrocks  
    • Terre
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:51pm

      Yes, I’d vote for option 3. We need to protect the first amendment but we can exercise some common sense. Since the funeral is in a ‘public’ area, there are already rules about ‘disturbance of the peace’. Set up a perimeter. Organized (and misguided) protesters feel free to spew your hate – but on the day we will honor those we love who served, you will do it 1000 feet away. Knock yourselves out. (Literally, please knock yourselves out.)

      Report Post »  
  • poverty.sucks
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:15pm

    Attack the pickateers from the opposite. File (pay tax) for permit for public parade with security that would limit where protesters can be. It’s not how its supposed to be, face it, based on the story it‘s where we’re at. Work with foundations such as WarriorsWatch.org and similar organizations to protect our hero’s liberty, right to a peaceful burial. For all that disagree, F.U.

    Report Post » poverty.sucks  
  • DoctorPlay
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:14pm

    I can’t stand this church group(not because they are a church group!). However, offfensive they have the right to speak/protest. Can local communities pass laws that would keep protestors back, lets say, 2500 feet or so? I would make life as uncomfortable as possible for these people if I lived in their community.

    Report Post »  
  • RESTORATION1787
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:14pm

    As brutal as it may be, Freedom of speech should and must be protected. When freedom of speech is curtailed, This begins a slippery slope to freedom from speech as is happening with religion. Separation of Church and State has been wildly abused. No Christmas Songs at schools and some public places, No prayer in school, No mention of God when testifying under oath. This is the same slope free speech would be on if it were banned.

    Report Post » RESTORATION1787  
    • shasta
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:47pm

      Resto, I agree with you and Glenn, Freedom of speech MUST be protected. I also agree and understand more on a phrase GB said a while ago about a “lake of fire” for people like this. I would be willing to pay more taxes on the Defense Budget, to have a Brigade from the nearest military base stand guard and keep at bay these kind of people for every funeral of our fallen children and thier fallen bretheren.

      Report Post » shasta  
    • livy333
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 3:25am

      I whole-heartedly agree with you! We cannot lose our freedom of speech! They’re trying to take over the Internet as it is! They say, “…just a little back door into EVERYBODY‘S facebook account and EVERYBODY’S e-mail account…no harm…” What were you saying about the slippery slope..? I would like to comment on the Patriot Patrol that TAQUOSHI mentioned. The Patriot Patrol came to our town to support a local family as they attended the funeral of their Fallen Soldier. The Patrol held up a large piece of material so the protesters could not see or be seen, and every time they chanted their horrible words, the Patrol reved their motorcycle engines to drown out their voices. It was effective!

      Report Post »  
  • Okpulot Taha
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:13pm

    I do not understand why common sense is not applied to this situation. This is something easily handled on a municipal or county level. Simply require a permit for assembly, then deny a permit to these religious nutjobs. Most cities require a permit for this type of assembly. Easy enough to solve this problem.

    These activities do fall under a federal hate crime category, arrest the jerks.

    Jeesh, no common sense in America these days.

    Okpulot Taha
    Choctaw Nation

    Report Post »  
    • cj51
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:01am

      i agree

      Report Post »  
    • jb1972
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:49pm

      Or they could lose or delay the paperwork! Or the police could arrest them, take them to the station for a few hours while “it all gets sorted out”. Just a couple of suggestions.

      Report Post » jb1972  
    • docvet
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 1:32pm

      Easy there. The Constitution has a “Freedon of assembly” right, too. I think the Freedom Riders have the right idea.

      Report Post »  
    • skepticalbecausesomeoneneedstobe
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 4:31pm

      yes freedom of assembly in one of the most important factors here

      i think a simple solution would perhaps deny protests of military funerals
      definitely cant deny them all of their protests but it i dont see why some of them dont qualify under any hate crime statute .

      what are your thoughts?

      Report Post »  
  • magicboop
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:13pm

    It is disrespectful. Obviously freedom of speech will prevail, but that does not mean that what they are doing is right. Same vein as the 9/11 Mosque. They have the right, but should they do it…NO!

    Report Post » magicboop  
  • ensemble
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:12pm

    This was on another thread..so I will repeat myself. It their free speech in targeting lower classes who serve in the military and have private funerals being exploited by free speech? I don’t think these horrible people would be allowed in earshot or eyeshot of a funeral for John Kerry, John McCain, Joe Sestak, Chris Carney, Tim Walz, Jack Murtha..all high level politicians who served in the military and were honored with purple hearts and other medals. They would be stopped at Arlington or at any high level private funeral..what would have happened if they showed up at Ted Kennedy’s funeral..who served in the Army? ..there would be no..free speech or no SCOTUS involvement. They would just be banned. I guarantee that they will not be close to the Bush family when George 41 passes. Or Gen Powells family or Gen Petraeus’s family.. this is about harrassing the families of the lesser known heroes.

    Report Post »  
    • flagbearer
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:36am

      What would have happened if someone had protested at Michael Jackson’s funeral? Think of the outrage! Freedom of speech does not apply if someone falsely cries “Fire!” in a crowded building because of endangerment to lives. This behavior endangers the emotional stability of bereaved family and friends. That is endangerment also. Permits should be required for such protests, and those permits could specify a time different from that of the funeral. And no, I don’t think our ancestors during colonial times would have stood for this kind of rudeness and cruelty. They would have taken matters into their own hands, and the courts would have supported them. They didn’t waste time, money, or a second thought as to how to deal with the likes of these scum.

      Report Post »  
  • Paycheck
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:08pm

    I am afraid they have the right, but I think it is HORRIBLE . The soldier died so they have the right to protest. My heart and prayers go out to the family. God Bless America and the Men and Women That Defend it.

    Report Post »  
  • aeronut44
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:08pm

    A bar down the street from my home has a sign in the parking lot. The owner puts some of the most hateful, racist quotes on that sign all of the time. I hate for children to see it and I think it is the product of a sick mind…however, just like with the funeral, you cannot choose when and when not to stand for freedom of speech…even though I would love to knee cap any person that would be disrespectful to a fallen soldier.

    Report Post » aeronut44  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:51pm

      Is it like one of those signs you can easily change the letters on? I would start having some fun with that in the middle of the night, unless you have to worry about him shooting you or something.

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
  • BigTXStones
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:07pm

    I don’t know the specifics of this case but does anyone know if this was at a private cemetary?

    Report Post »  
    • Okpulot Taha
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:28pm

      BIG TX STONES asks, “I don’t know the specifics of this case but does anyone know if this was at a private cemetary?”

      This would prove a can of worms. Most cemeteries are private property but there is an expectation of public access. I am fairly certain restricting public access would be ruled unconstitutional.

      However, I would think an owner of cemetery land could file a complaint for trespassing while a person or a group are clearly not there to pay homage to the deceased. This would also prove a can of worms.

      Most common sense action our Supreme Court could take is to uphold the lower court decision rewarding millions in damages to the family of this fallen soldier. Doubtful this church could absorb those costs. This threat of more civil actions might stop this church activity. Our Supreme Court could take this action and avoid this dilemma of free speech.

      On a federal level, our DOJ could go for an injunction against this church, an action similar to a restraining order at a local level.

      There are ways to work around this problem, seems senseless to not use available tools.

      Okpulot Taha
      Choctaw Nation

      Report Post »  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:47pm

      Right on Okpulat Taha. There are so many other ways I think these people could be handled.

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • Taquoshi
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 1:24am

      Okpulot Taha,

      I agree with you that the family should receive the money awarded in the lower court. After all, just imagine the mental pain of escorting your beloved son’s casket out of a church service, knowing the boy died a violent death in a foreign country and seeing a sign stating that someone is glad your child died that way because of an issue that he may or may not have even cared about.

      However, I suspect that if the Supreme Court does uphold the lower court ruling, the family will never see one thin dime of that money. It’ll be like Sharpton not paying Steven Pagones the financial judgement for the false accusations that Sharpton made regarding Tawana Brawley. Someone said earlier in the thread that Phelps is a Democrat. This will be most interesting to see how it all plays out.

      By the way, I am totally awed by the Patriot Riders who go and stand between the families and the cult members of the Westboro group.

      Report Post » Taquoshi  
  • cstcomputers
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:07pm

    God hates Gays where art thou he delivered AIDS upon the land and man proceeded to try and eradicate God’s solution to the Gay problem and made it equivalent to Breast Cancer or Heart Disease… What a shame, instead of teaching prevention we have cured God’s revenge. We shall be judged one day… It is a curse to be Gay. Will my opinion get censored I wonder??? Can’t wait for the responses to this.

    Report Post » cstcomputers  
    • patriotwoman
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:11pm

      Posted by a member of Westboro Baptist Church no doubt.

      Report Post »  
    • broker0101
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:14pm

      Go back to the Daily Kos, you obvious Lefty plant.

      Report Post » broker0101  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:41pm

      “Where art thou he delivered AIDS….”? Somehow that just doesn’t make grammatical sense, much like the rest of your statement. I am curious though, does God speak directly to you through, like, a burning bush, or is it more like a dream kinda thing? I wish I knew his plan as clearly as you seem to. See? We wouldn’t censor you, it’s much more fun to play with you.

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • broker0101
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:46pm

      cstcomputers, You are easily spotted as a plant, because we Consrvatives ARE NOT BIGGOTS.

      Report Post » broker0101  
    • cstcomputers
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:37pm

      HA, that was fun… I was just wondering if anyone had the courage to comment on the obvious double standard in todays Society. AIDS is the ONLY completely, absolutely preventable Disease, yet we concentrate on Treatment and Cures for, I guess we tell ourselves, are compassionate reasons instead of telling ourselves, we can prevent this disease by changing our behavior. OH what a disgrace, change our behavior? That’s for the other guy. I do not want to hear about Lung Cancer, Heart Disease, Diabetes or any of the other Diseases that can be behaviorally influenced. You can get any of these diseases just by living, you have to practice certain behaviors to get AIDS except in the few RARE cases of accidental infection or being born with it which is still the cause of human behavior. So get over yourselves and face reality. You are NOT holier than thou!!!

      Report Post » cstcomputers  
  • Ponyexpress
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:06pm

    If the first amendment to the constitution is vulnerable to the justifiably emotional negative response of the activities of awful folks from the Weastboro Church, then our constitution is in trouble, and so are we.
    They have the right to do what they are doing.
    This should not be a legal issue, as the constitution protects their rights to do this awful thing.
    We, the society at large must make them pay for their terrible behavior, by making them social outcasts by everyone in all of their everyday activities.
    Public scorn is the answer, not the undermining of all of our rights.

    Report Post » Ponyexpress  
  • patriotwoman
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:06pm

    How do the people from Westboro Baptist Church justify disrupting the funerals of military veterans because they hate gays and abortions? God didn’t punish these soldiers with death because they were gay. They died in a war zone. The whole “Gay” and “abortion” issues have nothing whatsoever to do with the military or with ANY of these families.

    Westboro is using these funerals as a place for their “protests” simply **because they can**.

    If Westboro Baptist Church really wants to make a statement why didn’t they show up at the funerals of those who are making the decisions, like say at Ted Kennedy‘s funeral or Robert Byrd’s? Why didn’t they? Because it‘s so much easier to take advantage of an ordinary family’s pain. That and because they‘d have had their arses tossed from the Senators’ funerals.

    Westboro Baptist Church is full to the brim with the lowest kind of cowards.

    Report Post »  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:30pm

      I wonder how they feel about prostitution ’cause they are in violation by being complete and blatent ATTENTION WHORES! I don’t think they are going to grow their congregation with these tactics though. They are certainly not persuading anyone.

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • RevGutz
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:54pm

      St. Paul writes “Love is not rude…. If you have not love you have nothing”. For a group that is supposed to know and believe in the Bible they seem to have missed a couple of important very important verses.

      Report Post » RevGutz  
    • Taquoshi
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 1:05am

      I think that Fred Phelps sees himself as a prophet, passing God’s judgment on the U.S. by his church’s actions. The easiest way to draw attention to his “prophetic” words is by “attacking” the funerals of those who have served in the military. Think along the lines of a David Koresh, here rather than a Jonah, Isaiah or Jeremiah. This, he most likely believes, gives him the “right” to act in a disrepectful, unScriptural and harassing manner.

      Unfortunately, Mr. Phelps missed the portion of the Scriptures where the Lord Almighty points out that vengence is His exclusively and that He will repay. There are also portions of Scripture where the Lord indicates that only He alone is to judge the world, not Mr. Phelps.

      Report Post » Taquoshi  
  • Steve
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:05pm

    Unfortunately, yes, they have the right. Too bad I don’t have the right to bust open their heads with a baseball bat. Although, it may be worth the time.

    Report Post » Steve Smith  
  • pscully17
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:03pm

    Vile, and despicablle behavior shouldnt be acepted in our society even though a law may protect that “RIGHT” The RIGHTS of family members, CITIZENS should also be considered at FUNERALS!! This is where UNRELENTING FORCED IDEOLOGY vs Good COMMON SENSE BEHAVIOR would warrant a Violent reaction — if the Funeral patrons were goaded into an emotional frenzie and shot and killed the protestors in this case, then I see no reason to prosecute The families from protecting the SANCTITY of a FUNERAL and BURIAL RITE!!!! Much like the Burning HOUSE, where FIREMEN watched it BURN we should allow thye Police to stand by ad watch these other putrid protestors to be eliminated from our society, for a small fee of $75

    Report Post »  
    • Libertyhight
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:20am

      My God I hope you never are elected to any office where you have power to affect law.

      Who decides what “common sense” is? You? Me? President Obama?

      So we allow murder as long as “they had it coming to them”? or “they are stupid”? or “they ticked me off”?

      I understand you are probably ranting and don’t REALLY mean what you posted. At least, I hope that is the case.

      Report Post »  
  • poverty.sucks
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:03pm

    It‘s awful that we’ve come to the point where we have to pay tax for a permit to bury a love one in peace. Prior we had our neighborhood mob to take care of this ruckus.

    Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:15pm

      I forget which ‘lawmaker’ said it (I know there was a D after his name) but he stated, “Sure you have freedom of speech, but there might be consequences for that speech”. I wonder what he might think the consequences should be? I vote something involving a lot of duct tape!

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
  • broker0101
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:03pm

    The solution is pretty simple. Bury your dead on private property, then arrest (or kill, if your state law allows) anyone who trespasses at the funeral.

    Report Post » broker0101  
  • cj51
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:03pm

    why isnt it considered a hate crime???

    Report Post »  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:11pm

      I’ve often wondered that myself. Perhaps it‘s because they are not HARASSING actual homosexuals so it doesn’t count? I still think surely the police can come up with SOME kind of violation those people are committing.

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • Madisonian
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:06pm

      Two quick points, one, do they have the right? Absolutely, but having the right and exercising it are different. Two, what the heck is a hate crime? I’ve laughed at how stupid that concept is from day one. I’m going to get life in prison (or the death penalty) for shooting someone for being “different.” That doesn’t stop me, but the 5 years for doing it because they are “different” is really going to stop me or change my mind, absurd.

      Report Post »  
    • Libertyhight
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:07am

      First off, because what they are doing is not a crime. God help us if it ever is. Hate crime is also a errant in the fact that it tries to assign intent to the accused based on some arbitrary social norm. All violent crimes are “hate” crimes.

      Do you want the police knocking on your door and arresting you late at night for a hate crime because you were video taped praying outside of a Planned Parenthood? Oh, but that would never happen….right?

      Report Post »  
    • NovRevolution
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 7:30pm

      I have said repeatedly it clearly sounds like Hate Speech and if you stood outside a gay bar yelling “God Hates ****” you can believe it wouldn’t be protected speech!

      Report Post »  
  • Miami
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:01pm

    BUT

    The father should not have to pay them a dime.

    Report Post » Miami  
    • CatB
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:32pm

      agreed! The father is the “harmed” party … they are happy to get the publicity he should not have to PAY!

      I say that we start putting out local information where these people will be picketing .. citizens can show up and sing over their rants .. if need be get musicians to go and play music that will drowned them out!

      Report Post »  
    • Miami
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:53pm

      Park a large moving tractor trailer in front of them, they can‘t stand in the road by law so they’ll be walled off.

      Report Post » Miami  
  • GardenoftheGods
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:01pm

    My husband and I almost came to blows over this issue today! I was on Glenn’s side, then I was on Pat’s side (which was my view before the on air disagreement); but then during 4th hour a man called who’s part of the Patriot Guard and I decided that he truly was right….they have the RIGHT, but it is not the DECENT thing to do. Thank God for the Patriot Guard is my final say!

    Report Post » GardenoftheGods  
    • Alvin691
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:21pm

      It’s like the GZM. They have the right, but they should show the decency not to.

      Report Post »  
    • grandmaof5
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:46pm

      They have the right, but they should be made to stay outside the cemetary, just as picketers and pollsters must stay on sidewalks so many feet from the entrances.

      Report Post »  
  • Nalora
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 8:59pm

    This was addressed as well as it could be by the Respect for America’s Fallen Soldiers Act.
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Respect_for_America's_Fallen_Heroes_Act
    It is sad that these people are so deluded, but Free Speech must be protected.

    Report Post »  
    • JayTee82
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:42pm

      That only applies to any cemetery under control of the National Cemetery Administration. I don’t know if the one in this case is or is not.

      Report Post »  
  • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 8:58pm

    Really, there is no legitimate reason to picket anyone’s funeral. Who’d ever think THIS would be an issue?

    Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • CatB
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:29pm

      I agree … if these people had any class this would stop and stop now. I think a funeral is a most private thing and these people need to butt out …. but since they won’t then they need to be kept away from the family .. even if citizens have to do it!

      Report Post »  
    • jb1972
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:34pm

      The Patriot Gaurd are the ones on motorcycles that will get between the family and the protestors. I think all it would take is one or 2 families to go after them and they get nailed for inciting a riot. Either way the SCOTUS votes, these people are scum.

      Report Post » jb1972  
  • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 8:56pm

    Dang, this is a tough one. I think those people are absolutely dispicable, and I think funerals should be off limits. It seems like there should be some sort of private property exception, or at least disturbing the peace. Don’t we bust people for disturbing the peace any more? I just wish those people would have their eyes opened and go away. btw That song they sang for the media was ridiculous! I got your ‘crazy train’ right here loony toon! lol

    Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • cbrundage
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:18pm

      I’m not sure why this would have to be a debate on principles – isn’t there a “disturbing the peace” issue which would cover it? If I make a lot of noice in front of my apartment building, I’m sure my neighbors would be within their rights to call the police. And more so a disturbance near a church service.

      Report Post »  
    • BlueknightUSA
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 2:42am

      In my state I could probably use the disorderly conduct statute…or maybe even provoking an assault, cuz with the folks I know an assault would surely happen!
      Disorderly is disturbing a lawful meeting or gathering. Provoking is if by words or conduct one provokes an assault…yep, could work!

      Report Post » BlueknightUSA  
    • workerant
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 12:40pm

      Why are we letting these freaks hide under the label of free speech? This is not free speech, this is an attack, plan and simple. You attack the body with sticks and stones, you attack the mind, heart, and soul with words and images. I can not understand how using words and images to attack in such an abusive way can fall under the label of free speech? Would you rather get punched in the face, or stabbed in the heart like the Snyders.

      Report Post »  
  • broker0101
    Posted on October 6, 2010 at 8:53pm

    Gonna have some fun with some of you now…. Can’t wait to read the responses (if any) to this simple statement of fact, “I do not agree with everything Glenn Beck says. Pat Gray either.”

    broker0101  
    • RONALDREAGAN1980
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:09pm

      Phelps and his Westboro Baptist freaks think that gays and everyone else (really, God hates just about everybody according to their website) are an abomination in the eyes of God, while they make an abomination of the first amendment. I think the Snyders will lose this one, but i don’t think they should. Does anyone have the right to disrupt the bereaved at any funeral, much less one for a young man who died fighting for his country? If I was a cop at one of these funerals, i would be hard pressed not to turn a blind eye if the soldier’s family beat Phelps and his crazies to a bloody pulp.

      RONALDREAGAN1980  
    • RESTORATION1787
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:18pm

      I”m not a mind numb robot either. I’ve disagreed on quite a few occasions. I have respect for the man and respect for his conviction in his opinions. Whether I agree or disagree.

      Report Post » RESTORATION1787  
    • LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:23pm

      They should also know that there’s something in the Bible about, “Judge not lest ye be judged”! I say whatever people do (that isn’t harming anyone) is between them and God. “If it neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg what difference is it to me?”

      Report Post » LUDWIKA BRONISLAWA  
    • henryclay
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:34pm

      Allow the free speech…

      Report Post »  
    • Robert W
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:34pm

      These are fake christians.

      Report Post »  
    • Yakimaniacal
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:53pm

      Totally agreed. I don’t believe Jesus and Lucifer were half brothers, or that harmful, hate speech directed to cause damage is protected speech. Both in contrast to Glenn. I agree with Glenn on much more than I don’t however.

      Report Post »  
    • anOpinion
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:11pm

      I don’t get it, why is free speech considered a license to mercilessly harass people? Is it legal to harass people?

      anOpinion  
    • henryclay
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:19pm

      These are people you should pray for..

      I don’t agree/like their speech but I dislike government deciding speech even more. Local laws can be created to block access if a community wishes…

      Report Post »  
    • Contrarian51
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:20pm

      I wonder if the Court could uphold Westboro’s right to free speech and simultaneously find that there was intentional infliction of emotional distress. Would the second part of that finding necessarily violate Westboro’s rights? In other words, sure, you can say what you like wherever you like but if you‘re found to have been deliberately hurtful it’ll cost you. Having the “freedom” to do something doesn‘t have to mean it’s “free” from a monetary standpoint, or does it? You have the right to keep and bear arms but no one has to buy them for you. You have the right to vote but not to expect someone to come drive you to the polls. You have the right to life but if you need medical treatment you’re expected to pay for it.

      I guess the problem would be that there’d be an explosion of lawsuits being filed. Any way a case like this goes, you’re staring down at a slippery slope, so if we have to put up with a bunch of idiots like this to ensure that the rest of us are left alone, then that’s the price we pay.

      If this bunch of loons is right about how God sees things, I have no problem being wrong and I’ll take my chances.

      Report Post »  
    • RichardSaunders
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:20pm

      Your “right” to free speech does have limits. You cannot yell “Fire” in a crowded restaurant (as SCOTUS has already ruled) if there is no fire. The Wellsboro Baptist Church does have a free speech right, but their speech DOES NOT have to interfere with the privacy of the family (YES, check your constitution – there is indeed a right to privacy!). This is especially true when technology carries free speech over many mediums in many ways… Leave our heroes and their families alone. You want free speech? Speak all-you-want, just not at the grave-site, the cemetery or within 10 blocks of the service for our heroes. Your right to “free speech” IS indeed “guaranteed” … but that right ends just before it intrudes on the privacy rights of others!

      Report Post » RichardSaunders  
    • JohnnyF
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:21pm

      This is not about freedom to express an idea. It is about causing pain to an innocent and vulnerable person. Stopping this does not in any way stop these people from getting their “message” out.

      As for the question of constitutional protection of free speech – don’t we look to original intent. Can anyone imagine the response this behavior would have provoked in Colonial America?

      Report Post »  
    • FreedomOfSpeech
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:22pm

      @BROKER I’m with you on your statement. I don’t agree with everything ANYONE says, including myself sometimes. I have been thinking about this issue for a few days and I think the court has to side with the “church”, even though the speech is beyond offensive. I think these “church” members will eventually be dissuaded from the offensive speech as they are surely to be beaten down heartily when they encounter the wrong family.

      Report Post » FreedomOfSpeech  
    • JayTee82
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:36pm

      Our freedom of speech should be protected at all cost. Yes. They are allowed to “say” those hateful things, but afterward they should held accountable for their “actions”. Go after them for harassment.

      Report Post »  
    • Independent Tess
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:42pm

      Couldn’t this come under some kind of Harassment or Hate Speech clause? It certainly seems harassing and hateful!

      Report Post » Independent Tess  
    • ebm1968
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 10:44pm

      It’s their RIGHT to protest… and I wouldn‘t won’t someone to attempt to silence me because they didn’t believe in my cause. With that said, let me say this as well… I have the right and the ability to shove a Coke bottle up my butt; however, that doesn’t make it an appropriate behavior or action. The Christians in the community should surround the family, lock hand-in-hand facing protestors (acting as a shield for the family) , and sing Amazing Grace as loudly as possible. Block them out…

      Report Post »  
    • CultureWarriors
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 11:09pm

      This will blow everyone away, but guess what party Fred is a member of? The Democratic party! That’s right! He’s a life long Democrat and disbarred civil rights attorney! Has run as a Democrat many times. Three times for Governor. Once for the U.S. Senate and twice for Mayor. Why do you suppose the MSM hasn’t made any mention of this? Could it be it makes Democrats look bad? Could it be that the MSM is a propaganda arm of the Democratic Party? Sorrys Dems, ain’t them facts a b!@#$!

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Phelps

      As to whether he has a right to… He probably does. Should he? Obviously not. I think however, there is maybe a valid argument for some decency standards. This is truly something worth debating with valid arguments on both sides and more than likely cross over from both political spectrums. Very interesting.

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UtmTALMkU4

      Rock on!

      Report Post » CultureWarriors  
    • gapch68
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:15am

      I believe free speech should be upheld but think there should be a distance barrier for funerals. I do think free speech needs to be protected in all instances but in some sircumstances there needs to be barriers.

      Report Post »  
    • flamedone1968
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:17am

      I reserve the right to jail time if I come across this happening as I will beat the lining daylights of these people for their utter disrespect for the family in their grief. If they don’t have the decency to respect the grief of a family at a funeral… a little self preservation fear into them for doing something so completely vile.
      Other than that I had to agree with Glen Beck as the slippery slope would go it would be used against us if we give yet more power to an already bloated government.

      Report Post » flamedone1968  
    • Wyle E Coyote
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 5:01am

      I have to agree with FlameDone1968 on this one. What these people from the “church” need is a few good beatdowns. Then maybe they will get it through their heads that we don’t (or shouldn’t) tolerate abusing our freedom of speech rights like this. And I personally struggled with calling them a “church” because they don’t represent God in any way, shape or form.

      Although I want to side with Pat here, I can’t. Glenn edges him out by a hair. In our current situation, our government can’t be given a foothold into messing around with our freedom of speech rights. They’re already challenging them enough. They don’t need any more fuel for their fire, which is what this turns into. What we need to do is be given freedom of privacy back. And some protections from harassment. This could easily be labeled harassment, and then it falls under defendable rules and laws. If we had a limited government, like what was originally intended, then we might be able to side with Pat’s tact, as we wouldn’t have to worry so much about the slippery slope.

      Personally, I’m for the beatdowns. Anybody know where they are planning to be next? ROAD TRIP!! I’m driving! lol!

      Report Post » Wyle E Coyote  
    • bookhound63
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 6:42am

      If I am going to believe in the first ammendment, then I have to believe it when I don’t like it, as well as when I do. I have to go with Glenn on this as much as I hate the idea. I said the same about the Quran burning and the Ground Zero Mosque. You have to be consistant.
      Here is what I said about Quran burning and the Mosque on Sept. 8th. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HrQ_U053W

      Report Post » bookhound63  
    • djaymadd
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 8:28am

      I also do not agree with Glenn. Love him dearly and agree most of the time but I believe you lose the right to free speech when that right infringes on my right to privacy. This despicable “church”, and I use that term very loosely, right to free speech infringed on the right to privacy for this family to bury their son. Yes, Glenn is wrong on this issue.

      Report Post »  
    • Libertyhight
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:00am

      Freedom of speech is one of the founding tenants that make America different from most every other nation that has ever existed. Once we allow government to start to censor or chill speech then we are truly through as a nation. This doesn’t mean that there are no consequences for utilizing this right. No, indeed, there are consequences. However, it is not the government to place limits on speech…not pornography, not racist slurs, not Bible preaching, not political punditry, not stupid bigoted moronic anti-military statements at funerals. I’ll keep my freedom… you keep your change.

      Report Post »  
    • HenHouseFox58
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:14am

      I liken Phelps protests to yelling fire in a movie theater. It invokes fear and animosity within the crowd of mourners to incite a melee against his followers. That‘s when free speech shouldn’t be used to hurt the crowd as in mass panic would do in a theater.

      Report Post »  
    • drbage
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:43am

      This version of Christianity is akin to the Taliban version of Islam.

      Report Post »  
    • ladydi97
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:55am

      Response to Henry Clay….Westboro has been to 4 soldier funerals in our town of 30,000+. They have to obtain a permit for the picketing. The permit they are given designates where they can be located, and it is not within a distance to the church and family so they can disrupt the funeral.

      Report Post »  
    • PatrickKing
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:11pm

      Let them protest, they call themselves Christians. However they must not really have read the Bible. God hates no one, He chooses no sides in war. I know this nation must turn back to God, but having radical groups who call themselves followers of Jesus Christ and doing the exact opposite of his teachings is not going to win anyone who does not believe in God or his Son will not bring our nation to correct our problems. I despise what they do, all who are killed on the battle field are honored by the Holy Trinity. We will all answear to our Creator when judgement day is upon us all, they will have to answear for their sins the same, and at that point their hope will be that He is a loving and Forgiving God!

       
    • thepatriotdave
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:28pm

      TO: Robert W
      Posted on October 6, 2010 at 9:34pm

      Robert, you win post of the day award for short-and-sweet accuracy!

      Report Post » thepatriotdave  
    • maddogLGTX
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 12:48pm

      The “church folks” did not show compassion for their brother and that is wrong . With that said their right to free speech should not be abridged. No menetary damage award will unhurt the feelings of the man who lost his son or bring these fanatics into the right will of God.

      Report Post »  
    • NotAshamedoftheGospel
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 2:29pm

      Is it lawful or just stupid to scream, “FIRE!” in a crowded theater? The same logic should apply here. WWJD? He wouldn’t hurt people who were hurting.

      Report Post »  
    • VegasGuy
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 2:34pm

      I didn’t need to watch the video to know which way to vote. Nevertheless I am glad to see Glenn came down on the correct side of the issue for the same reasons I believe. Look at how they have whittled away at the 2nd Amendment. Do you really want them to start on the 1st, too?

      Report Post » VegasGuy  
    • PT69
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 9:14pm

      Such as ?

      Report Post » Seth Patriot  
    • bandit5668
      Posted on October 7, 2010 at 11:49pm

      This country was founded on several principles…one is the freedom of speech…regardless of the horrible content of the speech…if the supreme court weighs in on this, then the very liberal attorney’s for the ACLU will twist and turn the ruling to say that speech against Islam, or against Nazi’s is against the consittution…My heart goes out to these people, I am a Vet myself, my husband is retired from the Mairne Corps, and my son and daughter-in-law have both served in the Army…so I am heartbroken for this family…but our country has to stand for the right of these (*&wholes to say the hateful and hurtfull things.

      Report Post »  
    • RKing
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 12:56am

      It is fine that you do not agree with Glenn. However, if you tell us what issue’s you disagree with then the debate can start.

      Report Post »  
    • carolinapatriot
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 11:52am

      I believe that ALL of Americans regardless of party or religious affiliation should take part in protesting the protestors by showing up earlier at these funerals to keep them from getting anywhere close to the processions. ALSO, every state in the U.S. should systematically visit Westboro Baptist Church and crowd this church with protestors that will disrupt their services AND their hateful mission. Hit em’ where it hurts….right at home! PEOPLE OF TEXAS, what are you waiting for?

      Report Post »  
    • abc
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 12:34pm

      Free speech in the public space is sacred. Beck is right on this one.

      Report Post »  
    • FedUpAlready
      Posted on October 8, 2010 at 3:55pm

      Glenn was right, but, Pat made an excellent arguement to find a law that addresses this problem. I agree with freedom of speech, but, we also know yelling fire in a crowed theater, would not be considered freedom of speech.

      Many a person has been arrested for shouting or saying, what could be considered fighting words. Fighting words are those when said could incite violence, thus being considered “ Disturbing the peace” or “Disorderly conduct” arrestable offenses. I do believe there is a solution within the law, and, one that could balance the right of freedom of speech with the right, of preserving the sanctity of a Heroes funeral.

      Reprehensible conduct can only be defeated through, honorable, self-sacrificial means ie. putting ones self between the protesters and the grieving family. Massing in hundreds and thousands carrying American flags and honoring the fallen, giving false voice to those who would denigrate an American Hero.

      Report Post » FedUpAlready  
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