John Coleman

John Coleman is FIRE’s legislative counsel for AI and free expression, serving as the organization’s primary expert on the nexus between the ascendant technology and free speech rights. John has penned analyses about free speech protections for AI users and developers, potential federal oversight of AI models, and how the Pentagon’s bullying of Anthropic violates the First Amendment, in addition to other topics. He also regularly testifies across the nation to advise legislators about free speech law. John’s voice has been featured in numerous publications, such as the BBC, Real Clear Politics, and Reason magazine, and he often comments on legislation and developments on his X account. 

Prior to joining FIRE, John had a distinguished career in the public sector. For over six years, he was counsel for the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, assisting on legal and constitutional policy issues, including those involving First Amendment freedoms. He also worked in the legal departments of two federal agencies before joining state government as a senior policy advisor in the South Dakota office of the governor. John earned his bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Mary Washington and his J.D. from American University Washington College of Law.

Selected writings

• Senate’s Rush To Regulate AI Chatbots Is Bad for Everybody (Real Clear Politics, 2026)
• Gov. Hochul’s crackdown on AI-generated "political speech" won’t pass the First Amendment test (New York Post, 2026)
• Free speech must be protected amid AI fears (The Minnesota Star Tribune, 2026)
• Senate’s new AI regulation bill nightmare for free speech and your wallet (Richmond Times-Dispatch, 2026; with Angel Eduardo)
• Don’t let Texas criminalize free political speech in the name of AI regulation (Austin American-Statesman, 2025)

Selected podcast appearances

• Tech Talks (Center for Democracy & Technology, 2026)