S. Res. 486 is a Senate resolution introduced on November 6, 2025 by Senators Edward Markey and Charles Schumer and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. The resolution condemns a November 1, 2025 social media post by President Donald J. Trump that called a comedian's commentary "probably illegal." It reaffirms the First Amendment and states that criticism of public officials, including the President, is lawful and essential to democracy. The resolution also urges Trump administration officials not to use regulatory, licensing, investigative, or enforcement powers to punish or suppress speech critical of the President, and it cites prior incidents involving late-night comedians and statements by Federal Communications Commission officials.
The resolution states the Senate's view that criticizing the President is protected speech and important for democratic accountability. It asks administration officials to refrain from using official authorities to penalize or intimidate critics. The text records recent events and concerns raised about broadcasters and FCC actions. Status: referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
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The resolution's text says that robust public debate and criticism of public officials are central to democratic governance and protected by the First Amendment. It argues the presidency is subject to public scrutiny and cites the President's November 1, 2025 post and earlier threats toward broadcasters as reasons to condemn any suggestion that criticism is illegal.
No publicly available information.