Protect First Amendment Rights - Oppose the Stop FUNDERS Act

Today I take pen in hand to write and urge you to oppose and vote NO on the Stop FUNDERs Act introduced by Senator Ted Cruz. This legislation, aims to twist existing laws, would add rioting to RICO predicate offenses. This poses a significant threat to our First Amendment rights and the fundamental ability to protest peacefully in our democracy. The proposed act is based on a Republican mischaracterization of the 'No Kings' protest movement. Contrary to claims of widespread violence, data analysis shows that 99.5% of these events have resulted in no injuries or property damage. Of course Ted Cruz and the rest of his corrupt colleagues ignore this overwhelming evidence of peaceful protest, which in fact stands in stark contrast to the narrative being pushed to justify his legislation. Millions of Americans are expected to participate in upcoming demonstrations, exercising their constitutional right to assembly and free speech. By potentially allowing the prosecution of those who fund or support these largely peaceful protests, the Stop FUNDERs Act could have a chilling effect on civic engagement and democratic Expanding RICO to include rioting as a predicate offense is an overreach that risks criminalizing legitimate political expression and support for peaceful demonstrations. Instead of supporting legislation that could suppress peaceful protest, we all must focus on addressing the underlying issues that drive citizens to demonstrate. Vote against the ‘Stop FUNDERs Act’ and any similar legislation that could infringe upon our constitutional rights. Thank you.