Representatives Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Greene have initiated legal action against two California cities and several liberal advocacy groups, claiming their First Amendment rights were infringed upon due to the orchestrated cancellation of their 2021 "America First" rallies. The lawsuit contends that Anaheim and Riverside, under pressure from activists and officials, coerced private venues into cancelling the events, even resorting to threats against permits. The representatives, along with their funding committees, are pursuing an injunction to prevent future interference with their political rallies and are seeking damages for emotional distress.
The lawsuit names ten advocacy groups and details their alleged pressure campaign on the cities. Initially planned for the Pacific Hills Banquet & Event Center, the rally was cancelled by the owner upon learning of Gaetz and Greene's involvement. A subsequent booking at the Riverside Convention Center was also cancelled, purportedly due to insurance issues. A third venue, the Grand Theater, was allegedly pressured by a city code enforcement officer who warned that their permit would be jeopardized if they hosted the event.
While Anaheim's chief communications officer acknowledged awareness of the complaint and promised a review, Riverside has not yet responded. Ultimately, Gaetz and Greene held the rally outside Riverside City Hall.
