The House of Representatives this evening passed a bill that reaffirms "In God We Trust" as our national motto and encourages the display of that motto in public buildings. The House supported it by a vote of 396 to nine.
The lone Republican "no," Congressman Justin Amash of Michigan, explained his vote (as he promises to do every time) on Facebook:
The nonbinding resolution "encourages the public display of the national motto in all public buildings, public schools, and other government institutions." Displaying "In God We Trust" on public property is appropriate in some circumstances. There is no need to push for the phrase to be on all federal, state, and local buildings.The fear that unless "In God We Trust" is displayed throughout the government, Americans will somehow lose their faith in God, is a dim view of the profound religious convictions many citizens have. The faith that inspired many of the Founders of this country—the faith I practice—is stronger than that. Trying to score political points with unnecessary resolutions should not be Congress's priority. I voted no.
We'll have more on the show tonight.