This resolution expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that regular journalistic activities, including the obtainment and publication of information, are protected under the First Amendment and that the federal government should drop all charges against and attempts to extradite Julian Assange.
The resolution, introduced by Rep. Gosar in December, needs cosponsors to be introduced to the House floor for a vote. Other members who have signed the bill are Rep. James P. McGovern, Rep. Thomas Massie, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Jeff Duncan, Rep. Ilhan Omar, Rep. Clay Higgins, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Rep. Cori Bush, Rep. Jesús G. “Chuy” García, Rep. Pramila Jayapal.
“Resolved, That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that—
(1) regular journalistic activities, including the obtainment and publication of information are protected under the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States;(2) First Amendment freedom of the press promotes public transparency and is crucial for the American Republic;
(3) the Federal Government ought to drop all charges against and attempts to extradite Julian Assange; and
(4) the Federal Government allow Julian Assange to return home to his native Australia if he so desires.”