Texas Lawmaker Discusses Ten Commandments in Schools on Podcast
Texas State Representative James Talarico, while appearing on the Joe Rogan Experience Podcast, shared his views as a seminary student regarding the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. Talarico, who is guided by his belief in the power of Jesus’ love, argued against making such displays mandatory, stating it reflects “a dead religion, a religion that no longer moves people, a religion that no longer speaks to people’s hearts.”
Talarico’s position highlights the significance he places on the separation of church and state. He described the mandate as “Unchristian,” emphasizing that Jesus’ teachings focus on loving outsiders, including those of different faiths. According to Talarico, displaying the Ten Commandments could make children of other faiths feel inferior, stating, “if Jesus saw that, he would weep for those students and would demand that we love them as ourselves.”
Drawing from his experience as a former middle school teacher, Talarico suggested that forcing Christianity through classroom displays would be ineffective. He remarked, “I was a middle school teacher before I became a politician, so I know students, they have the best BS detector around.” He believes students would see through the intent of the bill, which he claims is not rooted in love or gospel.
Talarico expressed concern that such a bill could lead to a generation of atheists who view Christianity as more focused on power than love. This concern is amplified by the increasing indifference to religion seen among younger generations.
During the podcast, Joe Rogan initially questioned Talarico’s viewpoint, noting, “it’s always interesting to see a person who is a Christian who is not for the ten commandments in schools.” However, by the end of the discussion, Rogan, who has previously supported President Trump, was impressed enough to comment, “So I just need you to run for president… We need someone who’s actually a good person.”
