Brennan Criticized for Free Speech Comments

CBS anchor Margaret Brennan faced criticism for suggesting that Nazi Germany 'weaponized free speech' to conduct genocide during a discussion with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio countered, stating that Nazi Germany was an authoritarian regime without free speech. Critics, including Wall Street Journal's James Taranto, called Brennan's comments inconsistent and indicative of CBS's selective censorship practices. Meanwhile, in France, President Emmanuel Macron's administration is criticized for using counterterrorism measures against pro-Palestine activists, highlighting ongoing tensions over free speech and civil liberties. In Australia, bipartisan support is offered for hate laws if changes are made to reduce subjectivity in determining vilification offenses. Separately, the Indian Supreme Court granted interim protection from arrest to podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, while imposing a gag order, raising concerns about free speech implications.