Defending Churches' Right to Political Involvement Now
Submitted by MAGA
Posted 4 hours ago
The government’s attack on religious freedoms has reached a boiling point, as newly surfaced discussions reveal the extent to which churches are being silenced on political matters.
For over 70 years, the Johnson Amendment has cast a long shadow over houses of worship across the nation.
This piece of legislation, enacted under the influence of then-Senator Lyndon B. Johnson, restricts religious organizations from engaging in political speech, thrusting the IRS into the role of religious overseer.
However, recent developments are shedding light on the urgent need to reassess this outdated rule.
First Liberty, an organization committed to protecting religious liberties, has achieved notable victories for churches targeted by the IRS for allegedly violating these restrictions.
In particular, Grace Church in St. Louis, Missouri, and New Way Church in Palm Coast, Florida, faced investigations simply for informing their congregants about political candidates' positions on critical cultural issues.
These extraordinary instances reveal how the government has sought to stifle the voices of faith leaders.
Moreover, the IRS has now declared that their actions did not jeopardize their tax-exempt status, affirming that churches should indeed be allowed to engage in discussions relative to political candidates.
The Johnson Amendment has enforced a chilling effect on open discourse within houses of worship—a situation no longer tenable in a society that places immense value on freedom of expression.
It’s imperative to recognize that pastors have an inherent right to educate their members on matters affecting their lives, including politics.
As past administrations have pushed for a more pronounced government presence in regulating speech, the current trajectory under President Donald Trump provides a much-needed contrast.
His administration has shown a commitment to uphold the First Amendment rights of all citizens, including faith-based organizations.
With an eye towards fostering robust debate free from government interference, it’s time for lawmakers to prioritize the repeal of the Johnson Amendment.
The spirit of our nation’s founding principles champions the independence of religious institutions, allowing them to contribute to the political dialogue without fear of government retribution.
In a time when faith leaders are being targeted, it is essential for every American to rally around the belief that churches can—and should—speak freely about the candidates who seek to lead.
A stronger emphasis on religious freedom is essential to nurturing a vibrant democracy, and the movement to protect this right must gain momentum in the weeks and months ahead.
Sources:
cnbc.com
westernjournal.com
harbingersdaily.com
For over 70 years, the Johnson Amendment has cast a long shadow over houses of worship across the nation.
This piece of legislation, enacted under the influence of then-Senator Lyndon B. Johnson, restricts religious organizations from engaging in political speech, thrusting the IRS into the role of religious overseer.
However, recent developments are shedding light on the urgent need to reassess this outdated rule.
First Liberty, an organization committed to protecting religious liberties, has achieved notable victories for churches targeted by the IRS for allegedly violating these restrictions.
In particular, Grace Church in St. Louis, Missouri, and New Way Church in Palm Coast, Florida, faced investigations simply for informing their congregants about political candidates' positions on critical cultural issues.
These extraordinary instances reveal how the government has sought to stifle the voices of faith leaders.
Moreover, the IRS has now declared that their actions did not jeopardize their tax-exempt status, affirming that churches should indeed be allowed to engage in discussions relative to political candidates.
The Johnson Amendment has enforced a chilling effect on open discourse within houses of worship—a situation no longer tenable in a society that places immense value on freedom of expression.
It’s imperative to recognize that pastors have an inherent right to educate their members on matters affecting their lives, including politics.
As past administrations have pushed for a more pronounced government presence in regulating speech, the current trajectory under President Donald Trump provides a much-needed contrast.
His administration has shown a commitment to uphold the First Amendment rights of all citizens, including faith-based organizations.
With an eye towards fostering robust debate free from government interference, it’s time for lawmakers to prioritize the repeal of the Johnson Amendment.
The spirit of our nation’s founding principles champions the independence of religious institutions, allowing them to contribute to the political dialogue without fear of government retribution.
In a time when faith leaders are being targeted, it is essential for every American to rally around the belief that churches can—and should—speak freely about the candidates who seek to lead.
A stronger emphasis on religious freedom is essential to nurturing a vibrant democracy, and the movement to protect this right must gain momentum in the weeks and months ahead.
Sources:
cnbc.com
westernjournal.com
harbingersdaily.com
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