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Whenever discussions of religious influence on politics in the United States arise, the discussion quickly moves to the issue of Separation of Church and State, and usually as a discussion about how religious beliefs should have no influence on political decisions. The concept of the separation of church and state first came up when Thomas Jefferson referred to the First Amendment to the Constitution as providing a "wall of separation" between the church and the government. This was not intended to ignore the influence of religion in the lives of this countries citizens, but was more of an attempt to protect the citizens from the influence of government on their individual religious beliefs.

It is important to understand that the founding fathers did not intend that religion should have no influence on the decision made by citizens of this country. The intent of the First Amendment was that the government could not establish a preferred religion that we would have to join, and that the citizens of the US would be free to practice their own chosen religion without government intervention.

Many of this countries founding fathers were very religious men. In fact, of the 204 men that signed the major founding documents of this country, all claimed a religious affiliation. This list includes Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, who many people wrongly claim were atheists. Their faith had a strong influence on decisions that were made when the United States was first established. If you read the writings of these men you can't help but notice those religious influences.

For many people, religious beliefs provide a moral compass in their lives. A deep seated faith in the teachings of their religion help define their belief of what is right, and what is wrong. These beliefs affect a persons feelings on every issue from abortion, to capital punishment, to the sanctity of marriage. If you have strong core beliefs, they can't help but influence the decisions you make in the voting booth. It's unavoidable.

People who believe that your faith should not influence your vote ignore a very important fact; what you believe to be right affect the decisions that you make. Whether those beliefs are a result of religious teaching, media reports, or self-investigation. What we believe influences the way we vote.

Should the way you feel about global warming, the war in Iraq, or the economic direction of our nation influence the way you vote? Absolutely. The same is true with religious beliefs. Your vote for candidates and on issues are a direct reflection of your belief system.

Learn more about this author, Jim Smoot.
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