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Federal Judge Dismisses Lawsuit, Upholds Johnson Amendment

4/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

A federal judge in Texas, Judge J. Campbell Barker, dismissed the National Religious Broadcasters' lawsuit challenging the Johnson Amendment, citing lack of jurisdiction to approve a settlement allowing endorsements.
The Johnson Amendment prohibits tax-exempt organizations, including churches, from endorsing political candidates.
The National Religious Broadcasters plans to appeal the ruling.
The ruling maintains the Johnson Amendment's restrictions and nullifies the IRS's earlier willingness to settle, reinforcing enforcement.

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Story summary

A federal judge in Texas, Judge J. Campbell Barker, dismissed the National Religious Broadcasters' lawsuit challenging the Johnson Amendment, citing lack of jurisdiction to approve a settlement allowing endorsements.
The Johnson Amendment prohibits tax-exempt organizations, including churches, from endorsing political candidates.
The National Religious Broadcasters plans to appeal the ruling.
The ruling maintains the Johnson Amendment's restrictions and nullifies the IRS's earlier willingness to settle, reinforcing enforcement.