Do Corporations have the same free speech rights as persons

“Do Corporations have the same free speech rights as persons?”

U5Q: Revisit Issue: “Do Corporations have the same free speech rights as persons?”  Again, be sure to do some serious research and read some relevant material, cite, discuss.  Post any good links

Solution

No, corporations do not have the same free speech rights as persons.

Under the Constitution corporations are not citizens and so Congress has the power to restrict their political speech, especially prior to an election. Unlike citizens corporations are not empowered to vote or to run for office. In this view corporations are not given the power to voice their opinions in a manner that can possibly skew the thoughts and opinion of the public.

As per the Federal law corporations are prohibited from making an electioneering communication. This prohibition is applicable within 30 days of a primary and within 60 days of an election.

Considering the above facts and issues the free speech rights of corporations are curtailed when compared to free speech rights of persons.

References:

1. https://www.britannica.com/event/Citizens-United-v-Federal-Election-Commission

2. http://catdir.loc.gov/catdir/enhancements/fy1408/2013474757-t.html