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Pentagon Cuts Faith Codes, Senators Push LDS Recognition

6/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Defense Department cut recognized religious affiliation codes from over 200 to 31, grouping many faiths.
Senators Mike Lee and John Curtis demand Pentagon restore LDS Church to Christian list.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the reduction is a step to help chaplains assess demographics and does not judge a faith’s legitimacy.
Critics warn the consolidation erases minority belief identities and could hinder demographic reporting for military spiritual support.

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Story summary

The Defense Department cut recognized religious affiliation codes from over 200 to 31, grouping many faiths.
Senators Mike Lee and John Curtis demand Pentagon restore LDS Church to Christian list.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the reduction is a step to help chaplains assess demographics and does not judge a faith’s legitimacy.
Critics warn the consolidation erases minority belief identities and could hinder demographic reporting for military spiritual support.