Dallas, December 11, 2025
Pastor Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Dallas testified that the Johnson Amendment is unconstitutional. He emphasized the need for religious institutions to endorse political candidates without fear of losing their tax-exempt status. His testimony highlighted a previous IRS investigation that cleared First Baptist Dallas of violations. The debate over the Johnson Amendment raises important questions about the balance between religious freedoms and government oversight, with support from the newly established Religious Liberty Commission.
Dallas, Texas – On December 10, 2025, Pastor Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Dallas testified before the Religious Liberty Commission, asserting that the Johnson Amendment is unconstitutional and should be repealed. The Johnson Amendment, which was enacted in 1954, prevents nonprofit organizations, including churches, from endorsing political candidates. Violations of this amendment can lead to the loss of tax-exempt status, raising concerns about the constraints placed on religious organizations.
The testimony from Jeffress not only highlighted his grievances but also drew attention to significant moments in recent history involving church and state relations. In June 2020, First Baptist Dallas hosted a service featuring prominent political figures, including then-Vice President Mike Pence and Dr. Ben Carson. This service, aimed at celebrating the nation’s Christian heritage, resulted in a complaint from the Freedom From Religion Foundation claiming a violation of the Johnson Amendment. An extensive IRS investigation ultimately cleared First Baptist Dallas after eleven months, but it underscored potential issues of government overreach into religious expression.
Jeffress argued that the Johnson Amendment violates the free speech rights of religious institutions. He pointed out that while many pastors might opt not to endorse candidates, the fundamental issue is ensuring they have the constitutional right to do so without fear of retribution. The discussions surrounding this topic reflect ongoing tensions between religious expression and political activity within religious communities.
The Religious Liberty Commission, established by President Donald Trump in May 2025, has been formed to confront perceived threats to religious freedom. The commission consists of notable members, including Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Phil McGraw, and Rev. Franklin Graham. This body aims to explore and address challenges that religious organizations face in expressing their beliefs openly within the political realm.
In a significant development, the IRS adjusted its stance in July 2025, indicating that the Johnson Amendment should not inhibit political speech occurring during religious services. This adjustment allows such activities without endangering tax-exempt status under specific exceptions, hinting at a possible shift toward recognizing the role of religious institutions in the political dialogue.
As the debate evolves, it raises important questions about the balance between protecting religious freedoms and maintaining governmental oversight. Local communities are encouraged to engage in these discussions, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding both religious liberty and the democratic process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Johnson Amendment?
The Johnson Amendment, enacted in 1954, prohibits nonprofit organizations, including churches, from endorsing political candidates, with violations potentially leading to the loss of tax-exempt status.
Why did Pastor Robert Jeffress testify before the Religious Liberty Commission?
Pastor Robert Jeffress testified to declare the Johnson Amendment unconstitutional and advocate for its repeal, citing an IRS investigation into First Baptist Dallas following a 2020 service featuring political figures.
What was the outcome of the IRS investigation into First Baptist Dallas?
The IRS investigation into First Baptist Dallas concluded without any findings against the church after eleven months and significant legal expenses.
What is the Religious Liberty Commission?
The Religious Liberty Commission, established by President Donald Trump in May 2025, aims to address threats to religious freedom in America. Its members include Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Phil McGraw, and Rev. Franklin Graham.
What recent change did the IRS make regarding the Johnson Amendment?
In July 2025, the IRS shifted its stance, agreeing that the Johnson Amendment should not apply to political speech during religious services, effectively permitting such activity without jeopardizing tax-exempt status under certain exceptions.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Pastor Robert Jeffress’ testimony before the Religious Liberty Commission on December 10, 2025. |
| Issue Addressed | Unconstitutionality of the Johnson Amendment and its impact on religious institutions’ free speech rights. |
| Key Individuals | Pastor Robert Jeffress, First Baptist Dallas; IRS; Freedom From Religion Foundation; Religious Liberty Commission members. |
| Outcome of IRS Investigation | Concluded without findings against First Baptist Dallas after eleven months and significant legal expenses. |
| Religious Liberty Commission | Established by President Donald Trump in May 2025 to address threats to religious freedom in America, including members such as Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Dr. Ben Carson, Dr. Phil McGraw, and Rev. Franklin Graham. |
| IRS Policy Change | In July 2025, the IRS agreed that the Johnson Amendment should not apply to political speech during religious services, permitting such activity without jeopardizing tax-exempt status under certain exceptions. |
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