Sen. Nuxoll refuses to apologize for her unfortunate behavior and remarks about the Hindu religion being false. Leaving aside such legitimate questions as common decency, tolerance or a kindergarten level of good manners, there are other issues this raises.

She has violated her oath of office as an Idaho senator whereby she swore to uphold and defend the United States and Idaho constitutions. Both documents mandate strict religious neutrality by government at all levels, a neutrality tested and affirmed by a long chain of court decisions.

As an officer of the state, she represents all constituents, not just herself or even the majority; therefore, she has an additional freedom-of-speech burden. She can say things as private citizen Nuxoll that she cannot as Sen. Nuxoll.

She says the Constitution is, “… based on Judeo-Christian principles.” Does she not know that there are three major Abrahamic religions that include Islam. Is she ready to embrace Shariah law? What is her view of Mormons, Bahais or my own Quaker roots? Does her God hear a Jewish prayer?

None of those are questions properly addressed by a senator. But all are raised when she makes a pronouncement about any religion.

James Jeffery

Grangeville, Idaho