News Hounds: O'Reilly wonders why protests are happening in a democracy

Protests and marches are expressions of free speech. Intimidation is not.

The video shown on The Factor was shot during a Board of Canvasser's meeting. In Michigan, all ballot petitions must be certified by the board to appear on the ballot. The board's authority is limited. It is the final administrative check on petitions - make sure all the conditions have been met.

The MCRI was certified by the Secretary of State as having met the requirements to appear on the ballot. During this perfunctory meeting, BAMN members overturned tables and screamed in the faces of the 4 members. Their sole purpose was to prevent the board from placing the petition on the ballot. They succeeded in intimidating 2 of the board members even though they were required under court order to approve the petition for placement on the ballot. Fortunately, the Michigan Supreme Court recognized the board's failure to comply with the law and authorized the petition's placement on the ballot.

In a civilized democracy, we debate and freely exchange opinions. BAMN is not civil. They attend MCRI presentations and shout down the speakers. They try to suppress free speech. O'Reilly is right that these tactics have no place in this country.

[Online comment - NewsHound. Posted on 10/20/2006.]