Tennessee Gubernatorial Candidate Proposes Banning Non-Christian Religions
A Republican candidate for governor in Tennessee, State Rep. Monty Fritts, has stated his intention to ban mosques and non-Christian religions, including Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, if elected. He argues that the First Amendment only restricts Congress and not states,…
Atlanta, GA, July 30, 2026 —
A Republican candidate vying for the Tennessee governorship has publicly declared his intention to ban mosques and non-Christian religions, such as Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, should he be elected to the state’s highest office.
State Representative Monty Fritts articulated his stance, asserting that the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which addresses the separation of church and state and prohibits religious establishment, applies only to Congress and not to individual states. Fritts’s position suggests a belief that state governments would be empowered to legislate religious restrictions under his interpretation of constitutional law.
Furthermore, Fritts has characterized Islam as a political movement rather than solely a religion. He stated that he views this movement as being incongruent with both the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of Tennessee. His remarks indicate a perspective that certain religious practices or ideologies are fundamentally incompatible with American constitutional principles and governance.
The specific details regarding the proposed enforcement mechanisms, potential legal challenges, or the precise scope of such bans were not provided. The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. The exact timeline for implementation if elected was not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Joe Birch, Gray News staff on www.atlantanewsfirst.com, see more information here.
