Trump Commission Urges Church-State 'Bridges'
Analysis based on 11 articles · First reported Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
The recommendations from the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission could lead to significant policy changes in the United States, potentially affecting the legal framework for religious organizations and public institutions. The proposed elimination of the Johnson Amendment could allow tax-exempt religious groups greater political activity, which might influence political campaigns and public discourse, indirectly impacting various sectors.
A draft report by the Donald Trump-created Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission suggests replacing the concept of church-state separation with 'building bridges' between them. The 224-page report, released Friday, advocates for a stronger role for religion in government, schools, and public life in the United States. Key recommendations include eliminating the Johnson Amendment (which restricts political activities of tax-exempt religious groups), compensating military members discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccines, and allowing more religious expression in public spaces. The report also calls for greater access to public money for faith-based agencies and broader exemptions for conscientious objectors. Critics, including the Center for American Progress and Interfaith Alliance, argue the commission lacks ideological diversity and has a skewed perspective. The report is open for public comment for 15 days and is expected to face opposition.
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