To add to our unfortunately regular theme of elected officials that simply do not understand the Constitution JCOnline.com reports that Indiana Sen. Dennis Kruse files bill that would allow schools to require saying Lord’s Prayer. The Huffington Post has another take.
The bill would allow schools to require daily recitation of “The Lord’s Prayer” (although apparently students could opt out with parental permission). Kruse is well known for repeatedly attempting to introduce bills which would allow the teaching of creationism in public schools. In a clear attempt at irony Kruse, a longtime state senator, is the Chairman of the Senate Education Committee.
Happily it does look like the bill has very little chance of reaching a vote. Senate President Pro Tempore David Long feels that Kruse may have backed the bill “to make a statement, not expecting a hearing.” Although he clearly understands the issue Long is still a politician and equivocates his statement:
“It’s a clear violation of the interpretation of the First Amendment by the United States Supreme Court. It’s not a personal opinion on my part.”
On the positive side he did assign the bill to a procedural committee known as a “burial ground” for bad legislation.
Verdict
Kruse’s willful misunderstanding of the law earns him a clear charge of Dickory in the First Degree. However his persistent and repeated offenses show a marked lack of remorse. We find no recourse but to brand him a repeat offender and place him on the national registry.
Mr. Kruse you must now visit your constituents, door-to-door, and inform them that they have an asshat resident in their legislative body.
Even discounting the audience chanting the phrase “we built it” has become the mantra of the Republican Convention in Tampa, Florida. The phrase is adapted from a quote made by president Obama in July.