From Faith to Freethought with Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02)

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In this  episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will  and Pastor Josh  invited  Congressman Jared Huffman to explore themes of religious liberty, Christian nationalism, and the role of religion in politics. Congressman Huffman, representing California's second congressional district, delves into his work with the Congressional Freethought Caucus (not forethought, lol), emphasizing its dedication to upholding the separation of church and state and combating discrimination against religious minorities and non-believers. The discussion illuminates the challenges posed by Christian nationalism, highlighting its influence on events like the Jan. 6 insurrection and its implications for religious liberty in the United States.

Huffman shares his personal journey from growing up in the Reorganized Latter-day Saints to becoming a secular humanist, offering insights into the importance of defending a secular, pluralistic republic. The episode also touches on the complexities of legislating morality, the nuances of religious liberty versus civil rights, and the potential impacts of the upcoming presidential election on religious freedom and democracy.

Hope you take the time to listen to this episode as we reflect on the delicate balance between religious beliefs and the principles of a democratic society, the power of youth and diversity to shape the future, and the critical importance of dialogue and tolerance in navigating the intersections of faith and politics. This episode promises to enrich the understanding of the intricate relationship between faith and governance, encouraging a thoughtful consideration of how to move conversations and actions not right, not left, but up.

Guest Bio:

Jared Huffman represents California's 2nd Congressional District which spans the North Coast of the state, from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Oregon border, and includes Marin, Sonoma, Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, and Del Norte counties. He was first elected to Congress in Nov. 2012 and currently serves on the Committee on Natural Resources and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. In the 118th Congress, he serves as the Ranking Member of the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries with jurisdiction over federal water projects, fisheries management, coastal zone and oceans policy, and wildlife and endangered species. Jared also founded the Congressional Freethought Caucus, which he co-chairs, to promote sound public policy based on reason, science and moral values, while protecting the secular character of government and championing the value of freedom of thought worldwide.

During his time in Congress, Jared has built a reputation as a progressive leader and an environmental expert who focuses on making a difference. Jared is also committed to ensuring our communities are resilient to the effects of climate change, including wildfires and droughts. He has been instrumental in defending America's coastlines from offshore oil and gas drilling, introducing legislation to protect the Pacific and Arctic Oceans as part of a coordinated, nationwide effort to protect oceanic ecosystems and coastal economies, while reducing our unhealthy dependency on fossil fuels.

Support Sarah Stankorb’s work and preorder Damned If She DoesWhy Women Quit Church and What It Means for the Future of Religion, Releases September 15, 2026.  Bookshop.org

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