Story perspectives

Court to Decide Fate of Johnson Amendment in Trump Case

11/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

A federal court will hear arguments over a settlement between Trump's IRS and two churches that could declare the Johnson Amendment unconstitutional.
The Johnson Amendment bars churches from using tax exemptions for political campaigns.
Michael Farris, a prominent Christian nationalist, argues the amendment infringes on religious freedom.
Critics warn the settlement would turn churches into unregulated political entities, undermining democracy and threatening the integrity of charitable giving and political accountability.

History

Historical Context

The Johnson Amendment, enacted in 1954 under Senator Lyndon B. Johnson, restricts tax-exempt organizations, including churches, from political campaigning to safeguard democracy. This legislation emerged amid Cold War tensions and accusations of communism. A current federal court case involving Trump's IRS and two churches could challenge this amendment, potentially reshaping the intersection of religion and politics in the U.S.

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Story summary

A federal court will hear arguments over a settlement between Trump's IRS and two churches that could declare the Johnson Amendment unconstitutional.
The Johnson Amendment bars churches from using tax exemptions for political campaigns.
Michael Farris, a prominent Christian nationalist, argues the amendment infringes on religious freedom.
Critics warn the settlement would turn churches into unregulated political entities, undermining democracy and threatening the integrity of charitable giving and political accountability.

1 / 2