She urged a broader interpretation of the law, emphasizing that a democratic society should prioritize equality and reject coercion.
In contrast, Gorsuch and the five other Republican-appointed justices found the majority’s decision consistent with the First Amendment.
They asserted that the government should not compel individuals to act against their deeply held beliefs, as it violates the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.
According to Gorsuch, the decision protected the promise of a diverse and open society where individuals are free to express themselves without government interference.
First Amendment Rights
During a press conference following the ruling, Lorie Smith and her legal representatives vehemently denied accusations that she was refusing to serve same-sex couples. And insisted it was the messaging requested not discrimination.
Smith affirmed her commitment to serving people from all walks of life, including those who identify as LGBT. She emphasized that her case centered on the protection of her own free speech, underscoring the importance of when speech should be safeguarded.
