Editor, The Transcript:

I see where our Christian Right junior U.S. senator is complaining that churches cant engage in political activity. Well, they can, of course, if theyre willing to forfeit their tax-exempt status. Thats part of the time-honored separation of church and state.

Lankford, R-Okla., even labels his position as the Free Speech Fairness Act. But long-standing federal law, the Johnson Act of 1954, prohibits nonprofits and religious organizations from politicking.

Pandering to religious voters, President Trump supports the idea of removing this prohibition, but allowing churches and other nonprofits to enter the political arena would, in effect, provide a taxpayer subsidy to all sorts of controversial organizations.

I suspect most us would not want a devil-worshiping group to spend tax-free money to proselytize its views. Or, to follow Trumps position, allowing certain unpopular religious groups (e.g., Muslims) to promote their views with tax-exempt funds. The separation of church and state has served this nation well over our history. As the old saying goes, Dont fix it if it aint broke. So, back off, Senator. Youre messing with a vital part of our constitutional heritage.

DAVID MORGAN

Norman

Link:

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Free Speech Fairness Act doesn't fix anything - Norman Transcript