President Donald Trump has launched a new Religious Liberty Commission during his second term, emphasizing the resurgence of religion in America. This commission, established following the White House Faith Office in February, aims to advise on religious liberty issues with diverse representation from various faith traditions. However, concerns have been raised about the potential for a specific Christian agenda to dominate the commission’s work.

The commission consists of up to 14 members appointed by Trump, including notable figures like Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Dr. Ben Carson. It also features three advisory boards comprising religious leaders, legal experts, and lay leaders from different backgrounds. The group’s primary objective is to safeguard and promote religious freedom in the United States, as outlined in Trump’s executive order.

While the White House highlights the diversity within the commission, some experts remain skeptical about its inclusivity. Critics question whether the commission, mainly composed of individuals reflecting the administration’s preferred religious and political beliefs, will truly uphold religious liberty for all. Concerns are raised about the potential focus on advancing a conservative Christian agenda, which some view as troubling.

As the commission convenes for its first meeting at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, the public will be watching closely to see how it navigates the complex landscape of religious freedom in the country. The true test lies in whether the commission can effectively protect the rights of all religious groups and practices in the United States, as it sets out to do.