Why a Wisconsin News Outlet Killed Its Comments Section

By Christina Lorey

May 19, 2025

The Wausau Pilot & Review has joined the list of media companies that have pulled the plug on their comments section — citing the toxic environment created by anonymous “keyboard warriors,” whose language has moved from obnoxiously dumb to obscenely dangerous.

According to publisher Shereen Siewert, “Moderating comments on a private media outlet’s social media page is not censorship. Like any business, [we have] the right to maintain an online environment free from intimidation, threats, and hatred.”

He continued, “Ask yourself: if you operated a business, would you tolerate violent threats or hateful speech on your company’s social media pages? Or your personal page? We doubt it.”

FACT CHECK ✅ While the First Amendment DOES protect hate speech — threats that are intended to cause fear of violence or harm, are not.

Author

Christina Lorey

Christina is an Edward R. Murrow-winning journalist and former producer, reporter, and anchor for TV stations in Madison and Moline. When she’s not writing or asking questions, you can find her volunteering with Girls on the Run, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and various mental health organizations. Send all story tips to [email protected] and sign up for her newsletter here.

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CATEGORIES: LOCAL NEWS

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