Though revered by history, Abraham Lincoln has been criticized for his
restrictions on civil liberties during the Civil War, including First
Amendment freedoms. People expressing pro-Confederate sentiments were
arrested, and the Chicago Times newspaper was shuttered for criticizing
Lincoln’s administration.

President Donald Trump attacked the news media, promised to “open up” libel
law and increase religious freedom for evangelicals.

George Washington, first President of the United States, favored the Bill
of Rights and advocated for religious freedom throughout his life.

James Madison, the chief author of the Bill of Rights and the First
Amendment, was the foremost champion of the freedoms of religion, speech,
and the press in the Founding Era.

John Adams, who served as the first vice president and second President of
the United States, also supported First Amendment principles through his
political writings and thought.

John Quincy Adams was the sixth president of the United States, a
legislator, and an attorney. He argued against the “gag rule” in Congress
that tabled petitions about slavery.

Richard Nixon’s conduct during his presidency typified executive abuse of
power, even threatening the freedoms of speech, press, and political
association.

Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third
President of the United States, perpetuated the American ideals of freedom
of speech, press, and conscience.

William Howard Taft is the only person to have served as both President and
then chief justice of the United States. His Court began to apply the First
Amendment to the states.