Tech Giants Sue Brazilian Judge for Unlawful Censorship
TMTG and Rumble Fight Back Against Extraterritorial Suppression
Introduction
The Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) and Rumble, platforms dedicated to free speech, have filed a lawsuit against a Brazilian Supreme Court justice, Alexandre de Moraes, alleging illegal censorship of American voices on social media.
Allegations
TMTG and Rumble accuse Moraes of issuing unlawful "Gag Orders" that prohibit political discourse outside of his authority under Brazilian law. These orders impact American companies operating on American soil, infringing on First Amendment rights.
One individual identified as "Political Dissident A" fled Brazil for asylum in the U.S. after Moraes issued an arrest warrant for "spreading misinformation" and "criticizing the Supreme Court."
Moraes has also ordered Rumble to block "Political Dissident A"’s account or face shutdown in Brazil. However, TMTG and Rumble argue that such actions are unlawful in the U.S., where they operate.
Violations of U.S. Law and Sovereignty
TMTG and Rumble contend that Moraes’ actions violate:
- First Amendment Rights: Suppressing political discourse in the U.S.
- Communications Decency Act: Restricting speech on platforms operating within U.S. jurisdiction
- International Comity Principles: Imposing foreign laws on American companies
Impact on American Platforms
TMTG and Rumble emphasize that Moraes’ orders directly affect their operations in the U.S.:
- Rumble faces fines or banishment if it complies with the "Gag Orders"
- Moraes may pressure Google and Apple to remove Rumble from app stores, effectively barring it from U.S. devices
- Truth Social, which utilizes Rumble’s technology, faces operational risks
Request for Relief
TMTG and Rumble seek a court declaration that Moraes’ "Gag Orders" are unenforceable in the U.S. They demand:
- Injunctions against enforcement of the orders
- Recognition of U.S. sovereignty and the supremacy of its laws
- Protection of free speech and First Amendment rights on American platforms
Background
Moraes has been criticized for his handling of anti-democratic activities by former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.
He has previously clashed with Elon Musk over the suspension of Bolsonaro supporters’ accounts on Twitter.
Moraes recently faced an indictment that could lead to the arrest of Bolsonaro for alleged coup conspiracy.
Conclusion
TMTG and Rumble’s lawsuit represents a significant challenge to extraterritorial censorship attempts. The outcome will have implications for free speech rights online and the sovereignty of the United States.
