Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Robert De Niro Stripped of Award for Exercising First Amendment Right

WASHINGTON D.C. - Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) released a statement following the National Association of Broadcasters’ (NAB) decision to rescind the “Service of Leadership” award from acclaimed actor Robert De Niro after speaking out against former President Donald J. Trump during his most recent criminal trial.  

“NAB’s decision is downright disgraceful,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “As an organization that represents thousands of TV and radio stations across the country, they should know the importance of exercising one’s first amendment rights. We live in a society where our broadcasters offer American audiences diverse perspectives and enable public debate. Whether you agree with him or not, Mr. De Niro offered his opinions as a private citizen during a pivotal cultural and historic moment — the first time a former president of the United States of America was convicted of felony crimes. NAB’s decision sends the wrong message to anyone who chooses to do the same as Mr. De Niro and use their right to freedom of speech.”  

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