Today, President Donald Trump appointed individuals to the advisory boards of the newly established Religious Liberty Commission.

This commission was formed via an Executive Order signed on May 1, 2025, with Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick serving as chair and Dr. Ben Carson as vice chair. The advisory boards are divided into three groups: religious leaders, legal experts, and lay advisors, who will provide their insights and expertise to promote and defend religious freedom across the country.

The Advisory Board of Religious Leaders

includes prominent figures such as Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone, Pastor Jentezen Franklin, and Rabbi Mark Gottlieb, among others. Each member brings valuable experience and a unique perspective on religious issues, aiming to foster dialogue and understanding among various faith communities.

The Advisory Board of Legal Experts

features professionals like Francis Beckwith and Kristen Waggoner, who will offer legal insights on matters related to religious liberty and its societal application.

The Lay Leaders Advisory Board

consists of activists and scholars such as Dr. Alveda King and Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, who advocate for religious freedom and emphasize the importance of civic engagement. Together, these advisory boards will work to uphold the principles of religious liberty and ensure that diverse voices are represented in discussions concerning this fundamental right.

The establishment of these boards reflects the administration’s commitment to addressing and promoting religious freedom in the United States.

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