(From the Desk of Sen. Risch, January 16, 2026)
Today, on National Religious Freedom Day, I join many Idahoans in celebrating our right as Americans to live according to our beliefs.
The ability to worship freely without fear of persecution brought the early colonists to this continent, shaped our nation’s founding, and is permanently enshrined in our First Amendment. It is the cornerstone and foundation of nearly every freedom Americans enjoy today.
However, that freedom is far from universal. Far too often, Christians, Jews, and other people of faith are targeted, attacked, and imprisoned simply for practicing their religion.
In a recent OpEd, I wrote about this disgraceful tragedy and why religious liberty is worth protecting here at home and around the world.
America has always been a beacon of liberty to the world. This week, I led a resolution to reaffirm America’s leadership in safeguarding religious freedom. I have also spearheaded legislation to protect the rights of faith-based organizations and block radical proposals that undermine Americans’ ability to live according to their religious beliefs.
Our rights come from God, but it is the responsibility of our government to protect them.
I will continue standing up for the God-given right of Idahoans, Americans, and people around the world to worship freely.
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