Justice Gorsuch Says America Was Not Born a Christian Nation

PBS interview reveals Justice Gorsuch’s stance on America’s religious roots.

Founding Vision
Justice Gorsuch argues that the United States was founded on religious freedom, not a single faith. He cites early colonies—such as the Amish and Quakers in Pennsylvania—as examples of diverse religious practice.
First Amendment Context
He explains that a true Christian nation would lack the First Amendment, which explicitly separates church and state. The amendment protects freedom of speech and religion for all.
Political Counterpoints
Conservative figures—including Vice President J. D. Vance—maintain that the U.S. was built as a Christian nation. Gorsuch strongly disputes these claims, labeling them “simply wrong.”

Recent Religious Policy Pushes
Right‑wing leaders have promoted religious symbols in schools and sought to alter tax rules that restrict charitable political activity. The Trump administration established the Religious Liberty Commission to further these objectives.
Public Opinion
A 2021 survey shows that:
~56 % favor church‑state separation.
~69 % oppose an official government religion.
Bottom Line
Gorsuch’s remarks highlight a fundamental clash: those who wish to intertwine faith and policy versus defenders of the original separation. His position reinforces that the U.S. was created to safeguard all faiths, not just one.