Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry defends the state's mandate to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms, arguing that the United States was built on "Judeo-Christian" values.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has sparked controversy with his staunch defense of the state's mandate to display the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. The Republican governor's unwavering position has drawn criticism from liberal commentators, who argue that such displays violate the separation of church and state.
Landry, however, remains steadfast in his belief that the Ten Commandments constitute a fundamental part of American history and values. In an interview on 'America Reports,' Landry expressed bewilderment at the backlash against the mandate, stating: "I didn't know that living the Ten Commandments is a bad way to live life."
Gov. Landry: Ten Commandments Form Foundation of American Laws
He emphasized the historical significance of the Ten Commandments, pointing out their presence on the doors of the Supreme Court and in the House chamber facing the Speaker of the House. Landry asserted that the majority of American laws are based on the principles enshrined in the Ten Commandments.
"Moses is the original giver of law," Landry said. "What's the big problem?"
Gov. Landry: Ten Commandments Form Foundation of American Laws
The governor argued that the idea of "separation of church and state" does not originate from the First Amendment itself, but rather from a liberal Supreme Court interpretation in the 1930s. He cited the presence of Judeo-Christian principles in all of the nation's founding documents, as well as on currency and throughout the Capitol building.
Landry accused those who seek to remove these principles from the foundation of the country of contributing to chaos and the eventual downfall of the nation. He stressed that the mandate to display the Ten Commandments is not an attempt to force religion upon students, but rather a recognition of the historical and cultural heritage of the United States.
Gov. Landry: Ten Commandments Form Foundation of American Laws
The governor said that the new law does not require schools to purchase the displays, but allows for individuals to donate them. He emphasized that the Ten Commandments are a symbol of the nation's values and a reminder of the principles that have guided the country for centuries.
Landry's stance has been met with support from conservative commentators, who applaud his efforts to uphold traditional American values. However, critics contend that the display of religious texts in public schools is unconstitutional and inappropriate, given the diversity of religious beliefs in the country.
Despite the controversy, Landry remains resolute in his position, maintaining that the Ten Commandments serve as a valuable reminder of the moral and ethical principles that have shaped American society.
