Court gives Facebook likes the thumbs up. (Source: CNN)

(CNN) – A U.S. court has ruled that “likes” on Facebook are protected as free speech under the Constitution.

The case came about when employees at Hampton Sheriff’s Office in Virginia lost their jobs after expressing support for their boss’ opponent by liking the opponent’s Facebook page.

Facebook and the American Civil Liberties Union became involved, both filed friend of the court briefs for the case.

The decision reverses an earlier ruling that said “likes” were just button presses.

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