According to the Trump administration, Europe has been described as a "space of censorship" and a "civilizational threat" to free expression. However, this claim has drawn criticism, including from French President Emmanuel Macron, who dismissed it as "pure bullshit." The debate reflects two contrasting traditions on freedom of expression: the American model, which emphasizes individual liberty and the free exchange of ideas, and the European model, which places more emphasis on institutional oversight and the potential dangers of unchecked public discourse. The American model of free expression originated from a deep distrust of government, rooted in the nation's struggle for independence from Britain. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly prohibits Congress from interfering with the free expression of ideas. This model, influenced by thinkers like John Milton and John Stuart Mill, encourages a "free commerce of ideas," where even controversial or hurtful speech is protected unless it incites imminent violence or harm. This approach allows for a wide range of expression, even when it challenges public sentiment or causes discomfort. In contrast, the European model of free expression is more cautious, emphasizing the role of institutions in safeguarding speech while also preventing abuses. This tradition has its roots in classical philosophy and the Enlightenment, which viewed freedom as a civic responsibility rather than an individual right. In France, for example, freedom of speech is guaranteed but comes with the caveat that it cannot be used to justify abuse. This approach aims to maintain social cohesion and prevent the spread of harmful or dangerous speech, often through legal frameworks and judicial oversight. While the American model has faced criticism for potentially allowing harmful speech, the European model has its own challenges, including the risk of institutional bias and the gradual erosion of open debate under the guise of public order. The European Commission is exploring ways to address these issues, including the creation of a "European democracy shield" to combat disinformation. At the same time, European thinkers like Jürgen Habermas suggest that a renewed model of free expression could focus on the quality of discourse rather than just the quantity of speech, promoting structured and respectful debate as a foundation for democratic engagement.