Gov. Reiterates Support for Freedom of Speech

Press Release

Governor Sean Parnell today reiterated his support for the constitutional right to free speech. On Tuesday and Wednesday, a group of pro-life Alaskans peacefully protested outside the Capitol.

On Tuesday, the Court System requested the Department of Administration use state vehicles to park in front of the protesters. The vehicles were there for 45 minutes before they were removed. Governor Parnell was made aware of this on Wednesday and immediately directed the Department of Administration to look into the matter and ensure it doesn't happen again.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, employees of the Legislature parked vehicles in front of the protestors.

"It was totally inappropriate that employees of the Department of Administration, the Court System and the Legislature were involved in parking state vehicles in front of the peacefully assembled demonstrators, who were violating no state law," Governor Parnell said. "I do not condone infringing on Alaskans' constitutional liberties. I have given direction to the Department of Administration to ensure this does not happen in the future unless public safety is at risk or the rule of law violated. I urge the Legislature and the Court System to do the same for their employees."

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