MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas - Citizens Defending Freedom (CDF) successfully defended the First Amendment rights of religious evangelists at a Montgomery County polling location, ensuring that constitutionally protected religious speech remains unimpeded during the election season.
The incident began when local law enforcement and election officials attempted to prevent religious speech near a polling location, incorrectly citing Texas Election Code 61.004. Remnant Law Attorney Martin Etwop quickly intervened to protect the constitutional rights of three evangelists who were peacefully sharing their religious message.
"This case represents a clear victory for religious liberty and demonstrates the importance of having knowledgeable legal representation on the ground during elections," said Jonathan Hullihan, President and General Counsel of Remnant Law, a Public Interest Law Firm. "The Texas Election Code specifically restricts sound amplification related to electioneering, not constitutionally protected religious speech."
The resolution was achieved after CDF's counsel provided a clear interpretation of the relevant statute to law enforcement officials. The Montgomery County District Attorney's office subsequently confirmed CDF's legal position, establishing that religious speech unrelated to candidates or ballot issues is permitted at polling locations.
Key outcomes of this incident include:
· Confirmation that religious speech is protected at polling locations
· Implementation of countywide guidance to law enforcement regarding religious expression
· Establishment of clear precedent for future similar situations
Citizens Defending Freedom remains committed to protecting constitutional rights and ensuring that religious liberty is preserved throughout our electoral process. This victory reinforces the distinction between electioneering restrictions and protected First Amendment activities.
About Citizens Defending Freedom:
Founded in 2021, Citizens Defending Freedom is a non-profit organization that strategically operates in counties across America to help citizens defend their faith and freedom, all while fighting for transparency in local government. Currently, Citizens Defending Freedom is established in Florida, Georgia, Michigan, and Texas, with plans to continue expanding across America. Click here to learn more about Citizens Defending Freedom.