Help me understand this:

[yy4me]

I thought there was supposed to be a separation of church and state? It seems I cannot get away from religion in any aspect of media coverage of the American political climate. I am so sick of hearing from the Evangelicals, the self-righteous individuals who peddle their philosophy to one and all, pushing the fear of eternal hell and damnation to anyone who does not support the current republican positions on any subject you can think of. Whether I believe or not, the government has no right to push its religion on me. It is the job of government to govern, not preach gospel. I have no problem with anyone because of his beliefs but I do have a problem with his pushing that philosophy on me. I cannot get away from it. Radio, TV, newspapers and magazines. No matter what, some politico is implying that my thoughts are all wrong because I do not actively spread the word and support everything said by politicians, preachers and some lay people. Washington's job is to run our country, not run my religious beliefs. I am developing a strong resentment each time I hear someone spouting again. How did we allow this to happen? We should be actively supporting politicians who have good moral standing, good judgment and a real concern for the country, not one (or many) whose main job seems to be to save my soul. I am sure that if there is a God, he will judge me on his terms, not on those of some religious fanatic who pushes his philosophy under the guise of government.

[tx_dem41]

1. I'm not sure you understand what the separation of church and state..

means. You keep mixing your statements between actions by the Government (which are generally proscribed by the 1st Amendment) and actions by radio, TV and newspapers (which are definitely NOT proscribed by the 1st Amendment).

[TechBear_Seattle]

2. First, understand "separation between church and state"

All citizens, including far right wing religious nutters, have a right to participate in politics and government.

People may promote whatever agenda they desire, provided it does not cross the line in to criminal activity; that is the essence of "freedom of speech." The media may cover any story or play up any angle they want; that is part and parcel to "freedom of the press." Freedom of speech and freedom of the press can not violate the freedom of religion.

The wall of separation that Thomas Jefferson wrote about exists only with regards to the goverment imposing religion on the people. Religionists can make whatever claim they want about how that would be a good thing, and the media can give religionists free coverage until the sacred cows come home, but that is not a breach in the wall.