Roy Cohn, Robert Mapplethorpe and a Trump-Era Dilemma Over Free Speech

The controversy surrounding a Mapplethorpe photograph of Roy Cohn has sparked a debate over free speech, especially as a biographer sought to use the image for a book cover. This situation highlights the complex legacy of Cohn, a controversial figure closely associated with President Trump, raising questions about artistic freedom and the influence of powerful individuals. The episode underscores the ongoing tension between artistic expression and the repercussions faced by those who might oppose it, particularly in a Trump-era where free speech remains a contentious issue. For more details, check out the full piece in The New York Times.