A recent ADN editorial (Oct. 16) identified the tension between the First Amendment and the federal and Alaska provisions restricting eligibility for public office/employment. A court proceeding is appropriate to determine its application, since facts need to be developed.
There can be little doubt that the Oath Keepers organization undertook seditious activities — guilty pleas, social media postings, sworn testimony and video footage show this. Rep. David Eastman’s trip to Washington, D.C., was unlikely to be in support of the election outcome. His motivation, extent of financial support and media postings can be developed and argued in court and evaluated. The court’s decision is subject to appeal. Neither the U.S. nor our state constitution are suicide pacts protecting those who choose violence over their provisions for pursuing change or policies.
— Peter Crosby
Anchorage
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