July 18, 2007— Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) issued the following statement in response to Democratic attempts to reinstate the “Fairness Doctrine,” an outdated government regulation imposed by the Federal Communications Commission for decades that required broadcasters to present controversial issues in a “balanced manner.”

“While it bears a noble-sounding title, reinstating this archaic government mandate would only reduce freedom in the name of ‘fairness’.

“Freedom of speech is one of the most fundamental principles engrained in our nation’s founding, and the price of that freedom, like every other, is eternal vigilance.  As Members of Congress, we have each taken an oath to do everything in our ability to protect and preserve the Constitution, and one of most basic aspect of that great document is the freedom of speech.  Without the ability to partake in unregulated public discourse, our founders never would have been successful in their efforts to resist tyranny and establish this great Republic.

“Two weeks ago, I was one of 309 Members of the House who voted for an amendment offered by Representative Pence that prohibits the FCC from reinstituting the Fairness Doctrine for one year.  However, it is obvious that this is only a temporary solution; and for that reason I am a co-sponsor of the Broadcaster Freedom Act, which prevents this or any future administration from once again regulating the airwaves of America without an act of Congress.

“It places us on a dangerous slippery slope to assert that government should regulate free speech and political discourse on public airwaves.  Political officials may not agree with everything broadcasters say, but we must always protect the right of people to say it.  Further, the principles of our flourishing free market society dictate that when American citizens retain the ability to decide what they will and will not listen to, the forces of supply and demand will adjust accordingly.  The best way to preserve liberty is to protect free public discourse, not regulate it.”