“Christian Values” Statement Has No Place in Our Government

TheHumanist.com ✒ “(Donald Kauerauf) is outspokenly pro-life and morally opposed to abortion. Missourians know that I share these beliefs and would not have nominated someone who does not share the same Christian values.”

Kate Uesugi

The above statement, made earlier this month by Missouri Governor Mike Parson, quickly prompted criticism and concern for the separation of religion and government. The statement was used to announce the resignation of Donald Kauerauf as director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, who was basically ousted by the Missouri Senate.

Many questioned the statement, wondering if Parson was implying that he wouldn’t even consider nominating someone who wasn’t Christian. Parson’s team quickly walked back the statement, with a representative emphasizing that Parson has no “litmus test for appointments.” Although Parson does have a history of appointees of various religious backgrounds, the statement still drew criticism, and understandably so.

The governor’s remarks, even if he’s not implying that being Christian is a prerequisite, are still offensive and exclusionary. It implies that his identity as a Christian is an important part of his role as a government leader and that he favors “Christian values” in his appointees. With this declaration, how are we to trust that he will actually treat nominees equally regardless of faith?

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