During a recent government meeting, Deanna Hardy, representing the Box Elder Committee of Liberty, voiced strong opposition to the proposed implementation of a free speech zone at the Box Elder County Fair. Hardy argued that the establishment of such a zone undermines the fundamental right to free speech, which she emphasized does not require designated areas for expression.

Hardy characterized the decision to create a free speech zone as \"tyrannical,\" asserting that it infringes upon the inalienable rights granted to citizens. She reminded the elected representatives of their oath to uphold both the U.S. Constitution and the Utah Constitution, particularly highlighting the First Amendment's protection of free speech.

In her remarks, Hardy also criticized past actions by previous county commissioners, who she claimed had effectively silenced public discourse by shutting down the public comment period for six years, from 2017 to 2023. She urged the current commission to recognize the importance of free speech in maintaining a healthy republic and to protect citizens' rights to express their opinions without restriction.