Tim Kiska: God Prompts Bipartisan Agreement
By Tim Kiska
The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to re-affirm "In God We Trust" as a national motto, getting a bi-partisan thumbs up from Michigan's congressional delegation – for the most part.
The measure passed 396-9, with two abstentions. Michigan Congressman Justin Amash (R-Cascade Township) cast one of the nine "no" votes, the only Republican in the "no" category.
Although the resolution is non-binding, it encourages the phrase to be posted on public schools and government buildings everywhere.
And that's what bugged Amash.
"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 citizens have," Amash wrote on his Facebook page. "The faith that inspired many of the Founders of this country—the faith I practice—is stronger than that."
He added: "Trying to score political points with unnecessary resolutions should not be Congress's priority."
New York Democrat Jerrold Nader also voted against the measure, and suggested that Congress might think of better things to do – such as fixing the economy.
"Nobody is threatening the national motto," he said.
The remainder of Michigan's 15-member congressional delegation voted for the resolution.