Did the Supreme Court uphold a “1952 Law Outlawing Islam in Government”?
That’s what recent headlines on sites such as homeinterior1 and dailydealss might try and have you believe. “Muslims in government are once again considered illegal,” the incorrect article declares.
In fact, that’s completely false.
“Congress passed a law in 1952 that disallowed Muslims from participating in American government,” one articles states.
The U.S. Constitution says the exact opposite. Article VI states that “no religious test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.”
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA),referenced in the articles isn’t even about about governance but—as the title makes clear—immigration.
The Supreme Court has also ruled against states using a religious litmus test when it comes to people holding public office, citing the First and 14th Amendments in the case of Torcaso v. Watkins (1961).
In short: No, the Supreme Court did not uphold a law which makes it illegal for Muslims to participate in “American Government.” Don’t believe this wildly incorrect information.
If you have questions about this fact check, or would like to submit a request for another fact check, email Holmes Lybrand at [email protected] or the Weekly Standard at [email protected]. For details on TWS Fact Check, see our explainer here.
