Maine legislator stands by statements regarding Nazis and paramilitary organizations

Republican state lawmaker Rep. Laurel Libby sparked outrage after defending Nazi groups’ right to demonstrate during a discussion about a bill that would restrict unauthorized paramilitary training in Maine. In a video that went viral, Libby questioned what the Nazis did that was illegal and argued that holding a rally, even with guns, is not against the law. The bill was prompted by a planned neo-Nazi training camp in Maine, led by a white supremacist figure named Christopher Pohlhaus. Despite backlash, Libby stood by her comments, stating that her priority is protecting free speech and association rights for all citizens, regardless of her personal views. Democratic lawmakers criticized Libby on social media, accusing her of fundraising through controversial remarks. Libby responded by posting a longer video of her full remarks on Facebook to provide context for her statements. The Maine House Democratic Campaign Committee, Maine Speaker of the House Rachel Talbot Ross, and the Maine Republican Party did not immediately comment on the situation. The incident has sparked ongoing debate and discussion about the boundaries of free speech and the role of lawmakers in protecting controversial views.

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