A presidential commission on religious liberty has suggested repealing the Johnson Amendment, aiming to eliminate restrictions on political involvement by religious groups. The commission, after seven months of hearings with 103 witnesses, presented 12 recommendations to President Donald Trump. Vice Chairman Ben Carson highlighted the proposals, which include combating anti-Semitism, protecting religious Americans from government litigation, and streamlining religious accommodation procedures for military personnel.
The commission also advised reviving broader legal protections for Americans practicing their faith and restoring benefits for service members who lost employment due to their religious beliefs on Covid vaccines. Additionally, it proposed establishing a Presidential Medal of Religious Liberty and First Freedom Hero Awards to honor individuals defending religious freedom. Carson praised Trump’s dedication to religious liberty, emphasizing the importance of rights originating from the creator, not the government.
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik emphasized the need to strengthen efforts against anti-Semitism, particularly in New York’s Jewish community facing numerous threats. Attorney General Todd Blanche noted that the report signifies the beginning of ongoing work by the administration, with plans to collaborate between the Justice Department and the White House to advance the commission’s recommendations. President Trump expressed intent to study the report and work towards implementing the suggested measures to reinforce religious freedom.
