2025 Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference

All-Expenses-Paid Trip To Washington, D.C.

June 22-27, 2025

Skill-Building
Network Growing
Head Start On Your Future

High School Juniors

Can Government Officials Block You Online?

Despite what some people say, public officials losing access to their social accounts doesn’t violate the First Amendment. But if public officials block you, that’s a different story.

Government officials use social media to share policy information, discuss current events and even make a case for reelection. Constituents count on access to those platforms to stay up to date on what’s happening in their communities and our government.

So, what happens if a public official doesn’t like what you are saying on their account and blocks you? Our senior fellow for the First Amendment Gene Policinski explains.

First Five Express are quick looks at trending First Amendment topics with what you need to know about your five freedoms.

Related Content

your opinion matters

Is Opinion Writing Protected by the First Amendment?

Why (and how) the First Amendment protects opinion writing.
Read More
counterspeech_feature

‘More Speech, Not Enforced Silence’

It is tempting to call for the censorship of speech we don’t like, but we…
Read More

The Next Battle Against Government Funding in Religious Schools?

Advocates who say taxpayer money should never fund religious education face new legal obstacles.
Read More

Regulating speech on social media: A First Amendment perspective