Few principles are as essential — or as embattled — as free speech. From college campuses to campaign finance laws, debates over expression and its limits continue to shape American law and politics. In the latest episode of GovExperts Insights, host Chris Britton welcomes Luke Wachob, Senior Director of Communications and Policy at the People United for Privacy Foundation. They engage in a timely discussion about protecting free expression. This is especially relevant in an era of political violence, online censorship, and blurred lines between activism and regulation.
Free Speech Imperiled
As headlines and heated debates remind us daily, free speech remains one of the most contested pillars of American life. Whether it’s protests on campus, regulatory scrutiny of nonprofits, or government “jawboning” of social media platforms, the ability to speak — and to hear — freely is once again being tested and at risk. The concept of free speech continues to challenge us.
In this episode of GovExperts Insights, Chris Britton sits down with Luke Wachob, a leading voice on First Amendment advocacy. They explore the evolving threats to free speech and what policymakers can do to safeguard it.
“Free speech isn’t just about the right to speak — it’s also about the right to listen.”
— Luke Wachob, People United for Privacy Foundation
Wachob, who previously served as Communications Director for the Institute for Free Speech, brings years of experience defending individuals and organizations from government overreach. He argues that political violence, intimidation, and aggressive regulation all pose serious risks to the First Amendment. These risks often go unnoticed by the public.
“Events like the assassination of Charlie Kirk are attacks on free speech itself,” Wachob notes. “They’re designed not only to silence one person but to frighten others into silence as well.”
Campaign Finance and the First Amendment
The conversation dives deep into how campaign finance laws intersect with free speech. This is particularly important when advocacy, donations, and media coverage blur together. Wachob warns that expanding regulations under the guise of transparency could ultimately silence legitimate public participation and undermine free speech.
“The government doesn’t get to decide who’s spoken enough,” he says. “You can’t let those in power control the conversation about how power itself is used.”
From the McCain-Feingold Act to the Citizens United ruling, Wachob traces how courts have repeatedly reaffirmed the principle that money spent on advocacy is speech. He notes that excessive regulation risks eroding the foundation of democratic debate.
Donor Privacy and Nonprofit Advocacy
As Senior Director at the People United for Privacy Foundation, Wachob has led efforts to protect Americans’ right to support causes without fear of harassment or exposure. His organization has helped pass donor privacy protections in 22 states. They continue to advocate for stronger safeguards at the federal level.
“Transparency is for government. Privacy is for people.”
— People United for Privacy Foundation
Wachob argues that anonymity in association is not a loophole — it’s a vital part of democratic freedom. From the Federalist Papers to the Civil Rights Movement, he notes that America’s greatest movements relied on privacy to protect their members and donors from retaliation.
“When the government demands to know who you associate with or what groups you support, that’s not transparency — that’s surveillance,” he adds, which poses a threat to free speech.
A Warning and a Reminder
Looking ahead to Free Speech Week and America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Wachob offers a simple but powerful reminder:
“Nobody stays in power forever. The laws we write today should protect everyone’s rights — including our opponents’ — because one day they’ll protect ours.”
For policymakers and citizens alike, the message is clear: defending free speech means defending it for all — even when it’s uncomfortable. A commitment to free speech is crucial.
🎧 Tune in to the full conversation:
Free Speech at a Crossroads: Luke Wachob on the Future of the First Amendment
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