Show-Me State Times

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) is urging the FBI to disclose documents pertaining to what he describes as the Biden administration’s targeting of Christians. The senator sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel requesting information about the purported religious targeting by the prior administration's Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI.

Hawley contends, "Under President Biden, the FBI targeted people of faith. The FBI’s Richmond Field Office went so far as to issue a memorandum suggesting that certain traditionalist Catholics might be security risks and proposed infiltrating Catholic parishes. President Biden’s FBI also weaponized the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances ('FACE') Act to target pro-life protesters and discourage people of faith from exercising their First Amendment rights. No doubt this is merely the tip of the iceberg."

The senator's letter asks the FBI to provide any related emails, memoranda, directives, and policy guidance connected with the targeting of religious Americans during the Biden Administration. "I trust that, under your leadership, this misconduct will end. But those responsible must be held accountable," stated Hawley.

In closing his letter, Senator Hawley expressed appreciation for previous discussions with Patel, adding, "Transparency and accountability will be paramount in restoring Americans’ faith in the Bureau. Getting to the bottom of the Biden Administration’s violations of religious liberty is an excellent place to start."

Senator Hawley emphasizes the importance of probing the FBI's past actions, particularly related to religious organizations, urging a comprehensive review of agency records by April 30, 2025. This request underscores Hawley’s concern regarding the potential misuse of federal powers to infringe upon First Amendment rights.