Newdow loses “In God We Trust” lawsuit

Good news:

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) – A U.S. district court judge on Monday dismissed a lawsuit brought by a California atheist against the U.S. government for its use of the phrase “In God We Trust” on its coins and currency.

Michael Newdow, the Sacramento, California lawyer and doctor who had previously launched a court challenge on behalf of his daughter over the phrase “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance said in schools, had argued that “In God We Trust” on monetary instruments violates his rights.

Newdow claimed that by using coins and currency bearing the phrase, he is forced to carry religious dogma, proselytise and evangelise for monotheism.

Judge Frank Damrell of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California held in his opinion that “In God We Trust” is secular in nature and use, and its appearance on coins and currency does not show government coercion on behalf of monotheism.

Newdow will appeal to the infamous 9th Circus Court, which as we all know has a history of idiotic rulings.

Stay tuned.

Hat tip: Blue Crab Boulevard

Prior:

• ‘In God We Trust’ next on Newdow’s hitlist
• Ruling expected today on Newdow challenge