David Maltinsky, a 16-year veteran, says in lawsuit agency retaliated against him for engaging in protected speech
A longtime FBI employee has filed a lawsuit alleging that he was fired for displaying a Pride flag at his desk, naming the FBI director, Kash Patel, the justice department and the attorney general, Pam Bondi, as defendants.
According to David Maltinsky, an intelligence specialist who had served with the bureau for 16 years, his wrongful termination earlier this year was “unconstitutional and politically motivated”.
The lawsuit claims the FBI violated Maltinsky’s first amendment rights and took retaliatory action against him for engaging in protected speech. Maltinsky is seeking a court order to restore his job.
The history of civil rights in the USA would disagree with this sentiment. Jehovah’s Witnesses are the reason we have the stated constitutional right to preach door-to-door, as well as refuse to partake in the Pledge of Allegiance in schools. Protecting the rights of horrible people establishes protections for all.
You don’t need to be sympathetic to someone in order to fight common enemies together. Temporary allies yes, friends/comrades no.