[Servant of the Nine]

Although this man was wrong to escalate the situation

I think that under the Supreme Court's "Fighting Words" doctrine, the flag desecrater was at fault.

There is an old doctrine that some words are so offensive as to constitute the first blow of a fight, and to allow the other person to strike back without guilt.

Part of the decision on Flag Burning was that while it is a constitutionally protected right, it may also constitute "Fighting Words". It is an act so outragious as to constitute the first blow of the fight.

SO9

[Henrietta]

"I think that under the Supreme Court's "Fighting Words" doctrine, the flag desecrater was at fault."

Chaplinsky is not exactly on point here, as the flag-desecrater's speech was not directed toward any particular person. Also, I don't think it would have induced a person of normal sensibilities to violence.

We all should just let these stupid protesters make asses of themselves and stand back and laugh. They're only protesting because they are powerless to do anything else.

[jjm2111]

Cool, I didn't know that.

[dolander2002]

Meanwhile, in Portland, OR, which is ruled by the liberal party, the following was reported Tuesday:

"Bureau Deputy Chief Gary Warrington on Monday had ordered his downtown fire engines to remove the flags to prevent provocations of local anti-war demonstrators.

Fire Bureau on Tuesday rescinded an order to remove American flags from fire engines after hordes of complaints from the public and firefighters about taking down Old Glory."

Any wonder why I get so frustrated with this place?