WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after President Trump issued an Executive Order promoting free speech and religious liberty:
Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after President Trump issued an Executive Order promoting free speech and religious liberty:
“The foundation of our Republic rests on the revolutionary idea that our rights and laws do not shift whichever way the winds of popular opinion blow. Indeed, our country was founded by people seeking religious freedom. Sadly, this uniquely American principal was attacked during the Obama Administration by partisan ideologues looking to advance a far-left, secular agenda. While it seems unconscionable for the government to trample on the free exercise of religion, it is our duty to pick up the banner of freedom that was first carried by our Founding Fathers more than 240 years ago. I’m proud to stand with President Trump to protect American families, small businesses, churches and places of worship from lawless government mandates that force citizens to violate religious beliefs.”
Background
(Courtesy of the White House)
Summary of Executive Order: Promoting Free Speech And Religious Liberty:
Declares that it is the policy of the administration to protect and vigorously promote religious liberty;
Directs the IRS to exercise maximum enforcement discretion to alleviate the burden of the Johnson Amendment, which prohibits religious leaders from speaking about politics and candidates from the pulpit;
Provides regulatory relief for religious objectors to Obamacare’s burdensome preventive services mandate, a position supported by the Supreme Court decision in Hobby Lobby.
