The Biden administration has expressed concern over a recent court order issued by U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty, which restricts executive branch communications with social-media companies. In a motion filed with a federal appeals court on Thursday, administration attorneys argued that the order could result in “grave harm” by impeding the government’s ability to engage in lawful and responsible conduct.
Judge Doughty, a conservative appointee of former President Donald Trump, issued the injunction on July 4th. The order prevents multiple government agencies and administration officials from meeting or contacting social-media companies with the intent of influencing the removal or suppression of content that contains protected free speech.
By explicitly prohibiting any form of pressure on social-media companies, the order raises concerns about the extent to which officials can publicly discuss certain topics. The administration’s motion seeks to stay the order, marking its first substantive response to Judge Doughty’s ruling.
Court Order Blocks Biden Administration Actions
A court order issued by Judge Doughty has temporarily halted the Biden administration’s ability to take certain actions. This order came about as a result of a lawsuit filed by Republican attorneys general in Missouri and Louisiana.
The attorneys representing the administration argue that the order is “ambiguous” and could limit their ability to address important public concerns and collaborate with social media companies on initiatives aimed at protecting the American people and democratic processes. They contend that the immediate and ongoing harm to the government outweighs any potential harm to the plaintiffs if a stay is granted.
On the other hand, critics of the ruling assert that it could impede efforts to combat misinformation on crucial topics such as health and elections. Meanwhile, supporters of the order contend that it serves as a safeguard against any unlawful censorship of differing viewpoints by the government.