Freedom From Religion Foundation Investigating Gov. Bevin

Thursday, October 24, 2019 at 10:29 AM

The FFRF says Bevin hosted a "pre-election rally" for preachers at his residence on October 21.

(Franfort, Ky.) – The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) is investigating Governor Matt Bevin.

The FFRF is looking into what is being called a “pre-election rally” that Bevin hosted on October 21 for preachers at his residence.

It’s believed that Bevin hosted Christian pastors and leaders from across the state.

FFRF Director of Strategic Response Andrew L. Seidel has formally requested records from the Bevin administration, including all emails related to planning the event and all records related to state resources, including staff time spent on the affair.

“If this was a campaign event, Bevin couldn’t use state resources,” said Seidel. “If this was a religious event, Bevin couldn’t use state resources. Either way, it’s hard to imagine how this is not an abuse of power. We’re going to find out.”

Last year, FFRF made a similar records request of the Laurel County Correctional Center in Kentucky, which hosted a religious event, and that was denied. FFRF took the matter to the Kentucky attorney general and successfully received an official opinion overturning that denial.

The FFRF then sued the center and is currently in litigation.

“Our message to Gov. Bevin and all pious politicians is: ‘Get off your knees and get to work. The answers to your state’s problem will not come from above,’” says FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor.

Eagle Country 99.3 has reached out to the Governor's office for comment.