Kasich has built some of his following on his reputation as a sincere (if somewhat offbeat) Christian conservative. In November, for example, he called for a new government agency to promote “Judeo-Christian values.” But tonight, when presented with a question about religious liberty, Kasich seemed to advance a rather different set of priorities.
While Kasich defended the right of religious institutions to practice their faiths however they please, he seemed to argue that people “in the business of commerce” should “conduct commerce, and if you don’t agree with [customers], say a prayer for them when they leave.”
Needless to say, Kasich’s position has received some criticism.
With every word, Kasich is demonstrating that he knows nothing about the legal position of the Christian bakers/florists.
— David French (@DavidAFrench) February 26, 2016
Kasich shows his complete misunderstanding of faith in his failure to defend religious liberty. #MadetoCare
— Bill Blankschaen (@BillintheBlank) February 26, 2016
Gov Kasich doesn't understand religious liberty for individuals. He apparently doesn't care enough about the issue to grasp it.
— Rob Schwarzwalder (@SchwarzSpeaks) February 26, 2016