At the July 15 Loudoun County Board of Supervisors meeting—the final session before the summer break—Chair Phyllis Randall (D) sparked controversy and confusion by abruptly enforcing a new public comment policy without board approval. Her actions raised serious concerns about silencing dissent and selectively applying rules, undermining both free speech and fair governance.

Shutting Down Free Speech

Without a vote from the other supervisors, Chair Randall unilaterally implemented a rule to prioritize speakers addressing “agenda items.” She then used this policy to cut off several individuals mid-comment, claiming they were off-topic—even when their remarks were reflective of broader community concerns.

• Three of the speakers interrupted were Muslim, prompting accusations of bias when Randall forcefully stated:

“I’m ruling you’re not speaking on topic. Please take a seat!”

• The atmosphere quickly deteriorated. Rather than improving decorum, Randall’s enforcement created chaos, turning what is typically a 90-minute comment period into a nearly two-hour dispute marked by confusion, interruptions, and accusations of selective silencing.
  
• One frustrated speaker, visibly upset, declared:

“Thanks for shutting down Arab women!”

The resulting tension wasn’t a product of unruly speakers—it was the direct result of unclear, unevenly applied policy introduced on the fly.

Unequal Enforcement of Decorum

Randall’s handling of the session revealed inconsistent standards. Some speakers were allowed wide latitude in their remarks, while others—particularly those raising concerns Randall appeared less inclined to hear—were quickly cut off.

This selective enforcement undermines the board’s credibility and suggests that certain perspectives are more welcome than others.

Why It Matters

• Free Speech: Public comment is a cornerstone of local government accountability. Silencing residents erodes the democratic process.
• Fairness: Rules must apply equally to all. Unequal treatment damages public trust and raises questions about implicit bias.
• Governance: Major policy changes should be made through open discussion and board consensus—not imposed unilaterally by the chair.

The Fallout

The July 15 meeting is seen by a number of Loudoun County residents as just the latest example of Randall’s reactive rather than principled leadership and a dangerous precedent of shutting down public input based on perceived content or identity.

Conclusion

Chair Phyllis Randall’s conduct during the July 15 meeting reflects a troubling disregard for fairness and free speech. Public comment should be a forum for all voices, not a battleground for selective control. Loudoun deserves leadership that values transparency, consistency, and respect for every resident’s right to be heard.

Link to video of Phyllis Randall shutting down speakers during public comment at the July 15, 2025, Board of Supervisors meeting can be found here.