If the Citizens United decision means that money is speech and corporations are people, then maybe we should make corporations (including SuperPACs) spending money on political ads subject to libel and slander laws. When the Koch brothers run ads like this, which PolitiFact determines to contain “Pants-On-Fire” lies, they should be liable. Not only that, but future ads by the same organization should be required to contain a disclaimer that says that this organization has been found guilty of lying — similar to health warnings on cigarette packs.
3 Comments
Fantastic idea. One problem is that they will just form a “new” corporation the second that you try to slap a label on. Other problem is the burden of proof of intent with those laws but we’ll think of something. Fines for libel and slander for PACs is a great idea.
Splendid thinking! Of course, we no longer seem to hold individuals liable for defamation — other wise, every Republican who engages in public speech these days would be a pauper.
Actually, that’s my plan should I win the lottery — to keep a flying squad of anti-defamation lawyers on salary and ready to deploy at a moment’s notice, to spring into action every time there’s an egregious instance. Rush Limbaugh would have to broadcast his show from the courtroom!
That is a wonderful idea. Who’s going to file the first lawsuit to try it out?