A Charged Report on Religious Liberty
On September 5, 2025, a Trump administration task force, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, released a report claiming the Biden administration “weaponized” federal power against Christians, citing “numerous instances” of bias. Exclusively obtained by Fox News Digital, the report from the Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias alleges discriminatory practices across multiple federal agencies, sparking intense debate over religious freedom and government overreach.
Human Toll of Alleged Discrimination
The report’s allegations resonate deeply with Christian communities, who feel their faith was unfairly targeted. From pro-life activists jailed for praying outside abortion clinics to Christian employees denied religious accommodations, the report claims thousands faced marginalization. For instance, the 24 individuals convicted under the FACE Act—many pardoned by Trump in 2025—endured legal battles that strained families and communities. These cases, coupled with reports of “debanking” Christian groups, foster a sense of persecution among believers, impacting their trust in federal institutions.
Facts and Figures of the Task Force Findings
The Task Force, established by Trump’s February 2025 executive order, conducted a preliminary review of federal agencies. Key findings include: the Department of Justice (DOJ) convicted 24 individuals under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act for pro-life demonstrations while allegedly ignoring attacks on churches; the FBI labeled “radical-traditionalist” Catholics as “domestic terrorism threats”; and the Department of Education imposed fines of $14 million on Liberty University and $37.7 million on Grand Canyon University. The Department of State reportedly favored non-Christian employees, while the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) removed Christian holiday posts from social media. A final report is due by February 2026.
Broader Context: Religious Freedom in a Polarized Era
The report taps into a broader clash over religious liberty in the U.S. Since the 2020 election, debates over faith-based exemptions and cultural policies have intensified. The Biden administration’s COVID-19 mandate, which led to 1.2 million religious exemption requests, saw only 3% approved by the EEOC, fueling perceptions of bias. Globally, religious discrimination claims echo in countries like Canada, where 2023 saw legal battles over church closures. Critics, including former Biden officials, argue the report exaggerates, noting the DOJ’s 2023 defense of religious freedom in 42 cases. The task force’s findings align with Trump’s creation of a White House Faith Office, signaling a policy shift toward faith-based governance.
Specific Allegations and Responses
The report highlights the DOJ’s selective use of the FACE Act, noting 915 documented attacks on churches from 2018 to 2023 went unprosecuted, per Family Research Council data. At the State Department, Christian employees were allegedly denied leave for holidays like Good Friday, while non-Christian holidays faced fewer restrictions. HUD’s removal of Easter posts while retaining Pride Month content stirred further controversy. No former Biden official has publicly responded, though the report’s claims face skepticism for lacking context on broader enforcement patterns.
What Lies Ahead: Policy Shifts and Legal Battles
The task force’s ongoing investigation could lead to policy reversals, such as reinstating faith-based initiatives dismantled under Biden. Legal challenges may arise, as seen in a 2024 lawsuit against HUD for unequal treatment of religious content. Globally, nations like Australia, with 2024 laws protecting religious expression, offer models for reform. The White House Faith Office, launched in February 2025, aims to align policies with “American values,” but risks escalating tensions if perceived as favoring one faith. A balanced approach is critical to avoid alienating non-Christians.
Conclusion: A Divisive Push for Religious Equity
The Trump task force’s report alleging anti-Christian bias under Biden has reignited debates over religious liberty. While it resonates with Christians feeling targeted, its claims face scrutiny for selective framing. As the task force continues its work, the challenge lies in ensuring equal treatment for all faiths without deepening America’s cultural divide, preserving the First Amendment’s promise of freedom for all.
