Politics & Government

Carroll Commissioner Invokes Jesus Despite Judge's Order

Commissioner Robin Frazier said she was protecting her First Amendment rights.

A Carroll County commissioner who once sang her discontent about government spending has made her voice heard in an unconventional way once again—this time about prayer.

Commissioner Robin Frazier began Thursday morning's meeting in Westminster with a prayer from George Washington that referenced "Jesus Christ" two times, the Carroll Eagle reported.

The action reportedly came within days of a federal judge telling Carroll commissioners they could not make sectarian references during their meetings.

U.S. District Court Judge William Quarles Jr. placed an injunction Tuesday on commissioners' use of religious references that included "the name of a specific deity associated with any specific faith or belief," according to the Carroll County Times, after two residents filed suit, claiming commissioners' prayers before meetings were unconstitutional.

The Constitution was what Frazier said protects her right to pray how she wishes.

Frazier said the injunction was "an infringement on my First Amendment rights of free speech," according to The Eagle.

The First Amendment states that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."

What do you think about the nature of prayer before government meetings? Tell us in the comments!

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