Illinois Revokes Controversial 'Oct. 7' License Plates Amid Free Speech Debate

The decision to rescind plates referencing the date of Hamas attacks on Israel raises constitutional concerns over political expression.

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has revoked five license plates displaying variations of 'October 7,' citing them as potentially offensive.
The action followed complaints about a plate with 'OCT 7' framed by 'FREE PALESTINE,' perceived as endorsing the 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois criticized the decision, arguing it risks censoring political speech and lacks a clear standard.
The Anti-Defamation League supported the revocation, emphasizing the plates' connotations of celebrating violence against Jewish citizens.
Recipients of the rescinded plates will receive replacements at no cost, as the state routinely reviews vanity plate applications for offensive content.