Trump Announces 'America Prays' Initiative to Encourage Religious Practices

President Donald Trump on Monday announced the “America Prays” initiative to encourage religious practice ahead of the 250th anniversary of the US.

The Details: Speaking at the Museum of the Bible, Trump said the initiative encourages Americans to dedicate one hour each week to praying for the country. He also said the Department of Education will soon “issue new guidance protecting the right to prayer in our public schools.” Trump also donated his family’s Bible to the museum.

For Context: In May, Trump established the Religious Liberty Commission through executive order. Its purpose is to “advise the White House Faith Office and the Domestic Policy Council on religious liberty policies of the United States.” The commission is in response to what the White House said was “Federal, State, and local policies [that] have threatened America’s unique and beautiful tradition of religious liberty,” and attempts to “remove religion entirely from public life.”

How the Media Covered It: Washington Times (Lean Right bias) framed the initiative as part of Trump’s broader efforts to protect Americans’ religious freedom. Daily Beast (Left) highlighted criticism that the initiative removes religious diversity in favor of “one set of Christian beliefs.” Newsweek (Center) outlined the legal balance between “religious expression and the constitutional prohibition on government‑sponsored prayer.” It highlighted other attempts by Texas and Oklahoma to bring back religious practices in schools.

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