Art Laffer, Binghamton University

Summary

Art Laffer is an economist and author known for the so-called “Laffer curve.” On November 18, 2019, Laffer was scheduled to speak at Binghamton University at the invitation of BU’s College Republicans. However, a student with a bullhorn succeeded in disturbing the event to the point that it was cancelled, despite Binghamton’s numerous preparations for the speaking event, which included providing an alternative space for protestors to exercise their First Amendment rights, ensuring police were on site to prevent violence, and asking attendees to save questions for after Laffer’s speech. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the protest, and the university issued a statement acknowledging that “freedom of speech is fundamental to our core mission; academic inquiry and the exchange of ideas rest on the principle that all have a right to express their beliefs.”