Ohio Motto Declared Unconstitutional

April 27, 2000

Source: The Columbus Dispatch

On April 27, 2000, The Columbus Dispatch reported that "pinions were plentiful yesterday in the aftermath of the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that Ohio's 41-year-old state motto -- 'With God, all things are possible' -- is unconstitutional." Some wonder why the US national motto "In God We Trust" has been allowed while this motto is considered unconstitutional; others argue that the national motto is more vague than Ohio's and thus shows less of a bias toward Christianity specifically. Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Libertarian Party of Ohio laud the decision as a positive step. "Rep. Jamie Callender, R-Willowick, said he plans to introduce a resolution next week supporting Gov. Bob Taft and Montgomery in pursuing an appeal."