Trump panel seeks repeal of Johnson Amendment
Washington, June 27
A presidential commission on religious liberty has recommended repealing the Johnson Amendment, reviving a long-standing conservative effort to remove restrictions on political activity by religious organisations while proposing broader legal protections for Americans exercising their faith.
The recommendation is among 12 proposals presented to President Donald Trump on Friday by the Presidential Commission on Religious Liberty following seven months of hearings involving 103 witnesses.
Vice Chairman Ben Carson outlined several of the commission's recommendations, including stronger action against anti-Semitism, legal protections for religious Americans facing government litigation and repeal of the Johnson Amendment.
"Combat anti-Semitism through enforcement of civil rights laws; litigation of credible allegations of anti-Semitic discrimination and violence and civic education; protect religious Americans from government led litigation targeting their free exercise; repeal the Johnson Amendment," Carson said.
The commission also recommended that the Department of War streamline religious accommodation procedures for military personnel and continue efforts to restore retirement, health insurance, pensions and other benefits for service members who lost employment because of their religious beliefs concerning Covid vaccines.
It further proposed creating a Presidential Medal of Religious Liberty and First Freedom Hero Awards to honour Americans who defend religious freedom.
"And lastly, honor the courage of religious liberty heroes through creating a Presidential Medal of Religious Liberty and First Freedom Hero Awards to recognise Americans who stand up for religious freedom and play an indispensable role in protecting citizens' constitutional rights," Carson said.
Carson praised Trump's record on religious liberty, saying the President had remained committed to the issue throughout his political career.
"I don't think anybody has done as much as you have -- maybe not everybody else put together," Carson said. "Our founding document says that our rights come from our creator and not from government."
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik also highlighted the commission's recommendation to strengthen efforts against anti-Semitism.
"As part of the recommendations of this commission, mentioned, fighting against anti-Semitism, fighting against Jew hatred," he said, adding that New York's Jewish community faced "a lot of threats" and that "it's a scary time in New York right now."
Attorney General Todd Blanche said the report marked the beginning rather than the end of the administration's work.
"We're not here saying, you know, we're done. We're here saying there's a lot of work left to do," Blanche said, adding that the Justice Department and the White House would work together to advance the commission's recommendations.
President Trump said his administration would study the report and seek to implement its recommendations.
"We're going to bring religion back even stronger," Trump said. "They've made some very strong recommendations, and now we have to convince people to adhere by those regulations."
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone who values religious freedom, I find this concerning. The idea that tax-exempt religious organizations can directly endorse political candidates? That's like allowing temple trusts to campaign for parties—that would be chaos here. But I appreciate the focus on fighting anti-Semitism; hate has no place in any faith tradition. Let's hope they balance liberty with accountability.
Trump saying "bring religion back even stronger" feels ironic given America's secular foundation. But from an Indian lens, I get why this resonates—many here feel religious identity needs protection. However, we must remember: mixing religion and state power historically leads to trouble. The Johnson Amendment was there for a reason. Let's see if Congress actually passes this.
The religious accommodation for military personnel who refused COVID vaccines is interesting. In India, we've seen similar debates about vaccine mandates and religious exemptions. But I worry this could undermine public health efforts. Also, creating a "Presidential Medal of Religious Liberty" feels performative. Why not focus on actual protections for minorities instead? 🙏
Ben Carson saying Trump did more for religious liberty than anyone else feels like exaggerated praise, but I respect the sentiment. As an Indian Christian, I see parallels: our churches also want the freedom to speak on moral issues without government interference. However, I hope this doesn't open the door for discrimination under the guise of religious freedom. Balance is key.
The anti-Semitism recommendation is important, but I wish they'd address Islamophobia and other forms of religious hatred too. In India
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.