In this first of a four-part “Red/Blue” discussion, Glen and April engage in a free-wheeling conversation on the topic of freedom of speech. They delve into issues surrounding free speech in the United States, with April speaking from a primarily conservative view and Glen from a generally liberal perspective. Among key points of discussion, April emphasizes free speech as a fundamental constitutional right safeguarding individuals from government interference, particularly when expressing unpopular or traditional views. She introduces the concept of “virtuous free speech,” striking a balance between the right to speak and the responsibility to speak well. Glen concurs with many of April’s points, highlighting that free speech rights are primarily protected against government intrusion, not in the private sector. He underscores that while free speech is a legal right, responsible use of it is a voluntary moral decision. Glen provides examples of controversial protected speech, such as flag burning and Westboro Baptist Church protests, to illustrate the importance of protecting even objectionable speech to prevent government overreach. Both speakers acknowledge the need to strike a balance between free speech rights and other competing principles and interests.

The discussion then shifts to the complexities of free speech in higher education, particularly on public university campuses. April and Glen explore the role of government in regulating speech and the challenges of balancing free expression with the need for a safe learning environment. April describes her interest in the Heterodox Academy, an organization that advocates for viewpoint diversity and open inquiry in universities. Part 1 concludes by highlighting the ongoing debate about the limits of free speech and the potential for self-censorship among students.

In part 2 of our conversation with Carlton Wing, Glen and April explore his thoughts on how to legislate from principle vs populism. Carlton bemoans the negative influences of extremists on both the left and right, and he cites the challenges politicians face in sometimes having to speak to the base of the party in order to be re-elected. Yet Carlton rejects name-calling as “an intellectual copout.” He also outlines a largely optimistic view of where he thinks Arkansas is headed politically. Carlton offers insights into how Arkansans can best provide feedback and have on impact on legislators, and he urges everyone to consider reaching out to their governmental officials. He finishes with a description of his poetic approach to lobbying for passage of his first bill as a freshman legislator.

Carlton Wing, Republican member of the Arkansas House of Representatives from the 70th district, sits down with April and Glen to talk about his career in sports media, his role as a host several years for a worldwide fishing tournament, and as a legislator since 2016. Carlton traces his early influences on his views and then describes his current work in government as “servant leadership.” He strongly believes that his role in the legislature is to serve the people by focusing on principle before policies, and he believes the majority of Arkansans see things from somewhere in the middle, between extremes on both the left and right. Carlton feels all in government should work together, something he promotes by seeking to lower the temperature politically and to build bridges. After describing friendships he has made with Democrats, he outlines several key laws and issues that have been passed recently or that he feels must be addressed soon. Carlton focuses in particular on the need for addressing taxation policy that ensures all programs seen as important are able to be funded. He also praises recent work to promote the natural resources of Arkansas, given research showing the value to mental health of time spent in nature.