The North Carolina FreeEnterprise Foundation hosted an educational seminar on February 23, 2010 to provide information about the U.S Supreme Court’s January 2010 decision in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission.


(NOTE: The following presentation and discussion is designed to be informational and educational, and should not be considered legal advice. Corporations, unions, trade associations, etc. interested in engaging in expanded political speech should consult with an attorney.)

   Introduction:

 

  Presentation:

 

  Panelists:

 
 
 

Charles F. Marshall and Julia C. Ambrose, attorneys with Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard, LLP provide brief historical context for the Citizens United decision and explain it’s legal and practical implications.

John Rustin, Executive Director of the North Carolina FreeEnterprise Foundation introduces the presenters and summarizes the Citizens United decision.

The formal presentation was supplemented by comments from a distinguished panel: Gary O. Bartlett, Executive Director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, Hunter Bacot, Associate Professor of Political Science at Elon University and Director of the Elon University Poll, and Alexander P. "Sandy" Sands III, attorney with Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC.

Gary O. Bartlett, Executive Director of the

North Carolina State Board of Elections

Hunter Bacot, Associate Professor of Political Science at Elon University and Director of the Elon University Poll

Alexander P. "Sandy" Sands III, Attorney with Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC

Part 1: Charles Marshall provides a brief history of lawful corporate political speech in the U.S.

Part 2: Charles Marshall reviews the legal implications of the Citizens United v. FEC opinion and what it means for corporations.

Part 3: Charles Marshall and Julia Ambrose discuss opportunities and obstacles resulting from Citizens United v. FEC, including disclosure and disclaimer requirements.

Part 4: Charles Marshall reviews some of the factors that should be considered before corporations, unions, trade associations, etc. engage in expanded political speech.