In a significant move to address concerns of religious discrimination, President Donald Trump announces the formation of a task force dedicated to eradicating anti-Christian bias within the federal government. Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., he emphasizes the importance of religious liberty as a cornerstone of American freedom.
The newly established task force, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, is mandated to “immediately halt all forms of anti-Christian targeting and discrimination within the federal government, including at the Department of Justice, the Internal Revenue Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other agencies.” Additionally, the task force will focus on prosecuting anti-Christian violence and vandalism, aiming to defend the rights of Christians and religious believers nationwide.
President Trump also announces the creation of a Presidential Commission on Religious Liberty, underscoring his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedoms. He states, “If we don’t have religious liberty, then we don’t have a free country.”
Furthering this initiative, the President reveals plans to establish a White House Faith Office, to be led by his spiritual advisor, Pastor Paula White. This office aims to facilitate collaboration between the federal government and faith-based organizations, ensuring that religious perspectives are integrated into policy discussions.
Reflecting on personal experiences, President Trump shares that his faith has deepened following two assassination attempts last year. He remarks, “It changed something in me, I feel. I feel even stronger. I believed in God, but I feel much more strongly about it. Something happened.”
These announcements have elicited varied reactions. Supporters, such as the First Liberty Institute, praise the initiatives, stating, “All Americans should be free to exercise their faith without government intrusion in school, in … .” Conversely, organizations like Americans United for Separation of Church … express concern, arguing that the task force might misuse religious freedom to justify discrimination and undermine civil rights laws.
This development marks a significant step in the administration’s efforts to address perceived religious discrimination and to reinforce the role of faith in public life.
