Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel raises freedom of speech concerns among El Pasoans

EL PASO, Texas , (KVIA)-- Disney's ABC pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live off air indefinitely following remarks about conservative activists Charlie Kirk's alleged killer, a move some El Pasoans are calling censorship.

A student at UTEP Teresa Aguilar said, "Obviously they're trying to shut down a person who is using their First Amendment Right, and freedom of speech, he's allowed to express his feelings."

Before the network's decision was announced on Wednesday, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr called for Kimmel's suspension over the comments.

"But frankly, when you see stuff like this, I mean, look, we can do this the easy way or the hard way. These companies can find ways to change, conduct and take action. Frankly, on Kimmel or, you know.. there's going to be additional work for the FCC ahead," said Carr.

Joe Larsen, an attorney who has a specialty in the First Amendment, called the suspension of Kimmel censorship. 

He said but there is a distinction between a private employer taking action over something you say and the government. 

"There's no doubt in my mind it's a to me, it's obvious to the most casual observer," said Larsen.

He said in this case Kimmel was suspended by ABC not the government, he said ABC was under pressure by the FCC.

Larsen also told ABC-7 that Kimmel could take his fight not just to the network, but to the FCC for violating his freedom of speech.

"The evidence would have to, I think, would have to support it. It's the government that got him fired," Larsen told ABC-7.