This was a nation founded as a secular state. While the majority of citizens in the US may be Christian, our government is secular.

Atheists are citizens of this nation. It is in violation of Article VI of the US Constitution to require potential office holders to pass a religious test.

Unfortunately, the state constitutions of Maryland, Arkansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Pennsylvania require belief in God for one to hold public office. (link goes to NYTimes article from 2014.12.06)

Christians say there is a war on Christianity. On the other hand, there has been, and continues to be, a "war" against non-Christians, in particular, atheists, secularists, and humanists. (Not to mention Mormoms, Muslims, Jews, etc.)

Urge Maryland's state government to remove the language which disrespects those without a faith in a deity. These representatives and executives have the "pulpit" from which to make public statements. If they choose not to respond, their silence on the issue paints them into a corner: they must believe that atheists shouldn't hold public office.

Instead of asking yourself whether you'd vote for an atheist, ask yourself if you'd vote for someone who wants to ban atheists from holding public office.

Use this link to find contact info for Maryland government office holders. The time it takes to send an email or make a phone call is nothing compared to the continued disregard of the right to freedom of religion.

(I do not represent Openly Secular, but felt their website was a good resource, so here's their website)