Free speech zones were commonly used by President George W. Bush after the September 11 attacks and through the 2004 election . Free speech zones were set up by the Secret Service , who scouted locations where the U.S. president was scheduled to speak , or pass through . Officials targeted those who carried anti-Bush signs and escorted them to the free speech zones prior to and during the event . Reporters were often barred by local officials from displaying these protesters on camera or speaking to them within the zone . Protesters who refused to go to the free speech zone were often arrested and charged with trespassing , disorderly conduct and/or resisting arrest . A seldom-used federal law making it unlawful to " willfully and knowingly to enter or remain in ... any posted , cordoned off , or otherwise restricted area of a building or grounds where the President or other person protected by the Secret Service is or will be temporarily visiting " has also been invoked
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Free speech zone