AFPI Demands New York End its Political Witch Hunt Against Brave FDNY Firefighters

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the America First Policy Institute's (AFPI) Center for Litigation issued a demand letter to FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, condemning the ongoing investigation targeting FDNY members who exercised their First Amendment rights during a recent event featuring New York Attorney General Letitia James.

During Attorney General James' speech at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn on March 7, 2024, audience members, including FDNY personnel, expressed varying opinions including boos for NY AG Letitia James and support for former President Donald J. Trump. In response, Commissioner Kavanagh initiated an investigation via the FDNY Bureau of Investigation and Trials (BITS), accompanied by implicit threats of disciplinary action against members, which could result in a violation of the Firefighters First Amendment rights.

"In America, the First Amendment guarantees our right to express diverse viewpoints without fear. AFPI fiercely condemns FDNY's unjust investigation targeting firefighters,” said Pam Bondi, former Florida Attorney General and AFPI’s Chair for the Center for Litigation. "AFPI stands ready to defend New York’s Bravest, highlighting the blatant violation of First Amendment rights and condemning the selective outrage evident in targeting dissenting voices. Firefighters have a proud tradition of vocal expression during FDNY events, and this unprecedented action undermines the very essence of free speech in our nation."

In a firm stance against government censorship and discrimination, AFPI demands an immediate halt to the baseless investigation and retraction of any disciplinary actions taken against FDNY members exercising their constitutional rights. Failure to comply will prompt AFPI to provide legal representation to affected members, ensuring justice and upholding fundamental freedoms.

Read the full letter here.

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