Reply #194: This is nothing new, of course.

[riqster]

Religion has been used as a political tool for all of recorded history. And, as Shakespeare noted, the devil can cite scripture for his purpose. Heck, so can Riqster! Observe:

Jesus was in favor of the separation of church and state:"Render unto Caesar that is which is due unto Caesar and render unto God that is which is due unto God." Matthew ch 22, 21

Jesus opposed candidates talking about their religion:"When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you." Matthew ch 6, 5-6

Regrettably, in the Old Testament and Paul's screeds, there are lots of homophobic passages and edicts that are used by people to justify their heinous actions.

Many of the founders fled from theocracies. They knew what a weapon religion can be, how it can oppress and destroy the spirit of the people.