On Monday, the House voted 396 – 9 in favor of “Reaffirming ‘In God We Trust’ as the official motto of the United States.” (Two Reps, Keith Ellison (D-MN) and Melvin Watt (D-NC), voted “Present.”)

Who were those 9 No votes?

Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)

Gary Ackerman (D-NY)

Judy Chu (D-CA)

Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO)

Mike Honda (D-CA)

Hank Johnson (D-GA)

Bobby Scott (D-VA)

Pete Stark (D-CA).

And…. Justin Amash (R-MI).

Not a typo. That’s really an “R” by his name.

Why did he vote no and buck the party line? He explained on his Facebook page:

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.

Wow. Didn’t see that coming. I had to read that twice because I couldn’t believe how much sense it made. Why can’t that type of mindset spread throughout both parties…?

(via Joe. My. God.)



