Re: [PLUG] Wanted: volunteers with bandwidth, storage, coding skills to help save climate data

["Eric H. Johnson" <ejohnson@camalytics.com>]

I think that is a misunderstanding of the first amendment. The first
amendment does not guarantee free speech or more specifically, secrecy of
how one voted, it only restricts what government may do. It offers no
protection against peer pressure, for example. Thus government is precluded
from either forcing the individual to reveal who they voted for, or worse,
force their vote, while also protecting the freedom to voluntarily reveal
one's preference or vote. In my case, I was actively involved in the
campaign of a candidate who was not Donald Trump, so it has been quite
apparent that I was unlikely to vote for him for a very long time.

I chose to reveal my vote to strengthen the argument that I was not just
being a shill for Trump.

Regards,
Eric


Good Morning,

Each of us on this list are involved in IT of some sort.  We deal with facts
and data on a continuous basis.  As a preacher, I never endorse any
politician, for I tell my listeners not to ever believe a political speech,
but that it is their responsibility to research a candidates past.  For what
they have actually done in the past, they will continue to do when they are
elected.

As computer scientists, we should not need to put up disclaimers on how we
voted, for we have a secret ballot for a reason.  How we voted should be
considered classified and of no interest to others.  If it is of interest,
should we be concerned how others feel about facts and data?  Let the Data
stand on its own.

There are people and groups who desire to censor freedom of speech and
freedom of the press.  I'm sure there are numerous groups who would like to
do away with the first amendment.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or
prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech,
or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to
petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

If you feel the need to use a disclaimer and specify how you voted your
freedom of speech is diminishing.


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