Pat Robertson, a prominent figure in the Virginia Republican Party and founder of the Christian Coalition, denounced government intervention in private affairs and reaffirmed his belief in individual rights in a speech to about 300 students in Minor Hall Friday night.
Robertson said the liberal political movement has caused many negative changes in the country.
He said he disapproves of the high taxation in the country and the current complex tax code, which is "bigger than the Holy Bible."
Robertson added that he founded the American Center for Law and Justice, in order to fight this "tyranny."
The Center has a case before the Supreme Court, Santa Fe Independent School District v. Doe, that deals with whether student-led prayer may take place at high school football games. Robertson, who is arguing in favor of allowing prayer before games, said Thomas Jefferson and the framers of the Constitution would not favor removing religion from society.
Robertson also denounced the "cockeyed Supreme Court rulings" that he feels misinterpreted the First Amendment's Establishment Clause.
Arizona Sen. John McCain, who currently is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, criticized Robertson and other religious leaders last week.
While Robertson said McCain "embarrassed himself" with his comments, he did not dwell on the subject.
Some members of the audience questioned Robertson on the presidential race, but he remained tight-lipped about the race, only commenting that he felt "there is no political reality in Alan Keyes winning."
Some members of the audience were critical of Robertson.
The Jefferson Literary and Debating Society sponsored Robertson's appearance.
Society President Jonathan Carr said he was pleased with the overall outcome of the event, and the demonstrated interest of students.
Read More
Va. Senate Democrats ask that Youngkin ceases making appointments to the Board
By Nina Broderick | 15 hours agoThe Committee’s vote rejected James Donovan, John Harris, H. Eugene Lockhart and Calvert Saunders Moore.
From the Archives: Kicking off the Season
By Clara Franklin and Tori Vonderheid | YesterdayThe Cavaliers were able to score in each of the first three quarters and kept the Colonials from getting past the 20-yard line.
U.Va. Faculty Senate hears from interim President Mahoney
By Nina Broderick | YesterdayThe Faculty Senate heard from Interim President Paul G. Mahoney, as well as passed a resolution affirming the body’s commitment to academic freedom and the University’s mission.
