Republican attorney general out of step with GOP on religious charter school debate

The U.S. Supreme Court is gearing up to hear oral arguments later this month in a case that could potentially pave the way for the first religious public charter school in the United States. The case has stirred up controversy, with Republican Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond taking a stand against what he deems as unconstitutional state-sponsored and taxpayer-funded religious education.

On the other side of the debate, conservatives have rallied in support of St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, arguing that parents have the right to educate their children in line with their religious values. Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma has been a vocal advocate for the creation of this religious public charter school, positioning Oklahoma at the forefront of the fight for religious liberty and education freedom.

However, Drummond remains steadfast in his opposition to taxpayer funding for St. Isidore, citing the separation of church and state as outlined in the First Amendment. The clash between Drummond and his own party highlights the complex legal and moral issues at play in this case.

Last month, Stitt and over 50 elected officials voiced their support for the Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board and St. Isidore, leading to the consolidation of two cases for review by the U.S. Supreme Court. Republican senators, including Ted Cruz, filed an amicus brief arguing that denying St. Isidore a charter based on its religious affiliation would violate the First Amendment.

Despite facing pressure from fellow conservatives, Drummond remains resolute in his commitment to upholding the law and defending Oklahoma statutes. As he campaigns for governor of Oklahoma, Drummond’s stance on the issue underscores his dedication to his constitutional duty and legal obligations.

The debate over the creation of a religious public charter school in Oklahoma has been ongoing since June 2023, when the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board approved St. Isidore’s contract request. Drummond’s lawsuit against the board was later affirmed by the Oklahoma Supreme Court, setting the stage for the current legal battle.

As Stitt and Drummond continue their feud over this landmark case, the implications of the Supreme Court’s decision are far-reaching. The outcome of this case could have a significant impact on the intersection of religious freedom, education policy, and constitutional law in the United States.

In the midst of this contentious debate, it is clear that the issue of religious public charter schools is a complex and divisive one. As the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to weigh in on the matter, the future of religious education in the public sphere hangs in the balance.