1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to directly and publicly condemn religious attacks by elected officials and political leaders. Recent examples are clear and troubling: statements from U.S. Congressman Randy Fine and House Speaker Mike Johnson warning about alleged “Sharia law” threats, and Donald Trump’s verbal attacks against Pope Leo XIV. These remarks unfairly target religious groups and leaders, and they contribute to fear, misinformation, and division. Elected officials have a responsibility to reject rhetoric that singles out people based on their faith. When such statements go unchallenged, they legitimize prejudice and signal that religious intolerance is acceptable in public discourse. That is not consistent with the values of a diverse and democratic society. This issue should not be partisan. Regardless of party, leaders must affirm that individuals of all religions—and those with no religious affiliation—deserve equal respect and protection. Speaking out against religious hostility is a basic standard of public service and leadership. There is also a clear constitutional concern. The First Amendment in the U.S. Constitution requires a firm separation between church and state. When public officials promote narratives that elevate or demonize particular religions, they undermine that principle and blur the line between government neutrality and religious bias. Failing to address such rhetoric risks normalizing government entanglement in religious matters. I urge you to take a clear stance: condemn religious attacks, reject fear-based narratives, and reaffirm the importance of religious neutrality in government.