Letter: Disinformation Governance Board?

Methinks a cynical eye should be cast in the direction of the recently identified function that has been established in the Department of Homeland Security ... the Disinformation Governance Board. Wow!

As has been noted by several sources, the actual role and scope of its "governance" still remains foggy, which should cause pause in any acceptance of such a function within our government. As noted by the current administration, this is an extension of what was established in the last administration and its role and scope was limited to cyber security. The obvious issues that require attention are twofold.

First, granting responsibility to anyone (including "news services") to pass judgment or govern any written or spoken word, whether we like or agree with the perspective or not, is in conflict with our Freedom of Speech. And to possibly place that responsibility in the hands of any politically-oriented party, person or entity is asking for disaster.

Trust "truth" oversight to a politician? With no exceptions they all constantly twist, spin and lie in support of their partial position.

Second, maybe the initial intent is not there but the possibility strongly exists that a political function might very well, over time, overstep the intended bounds in pursuit of a self-proclaimed and self-serving "truth." Existing examples include functions like the EPA, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and many more.

Don't forget or overlook history like USSR/Russia, China or other lesser autocratic governments and how the foundation of their governance is in control of communication and information with their Orwellian Ministries of Truth.

Never trust anyone, especially a political entity or government, to oversee or regulate our Freedom of Speech in any form. They will creep in and eventually eat you.

Rod Sink

Elgin