Trump touts proposed Bible literacy classes in state schools

President Trump on Monday embraced proposals from lawmakers in six states that would allow public schools to offer Bible literacy classes.

The president’s tweet came shortly after the subject was discussed on “Fox & Friends.”

{mosads}”Numerous states introducing Bible Literacy classes, giving students the option of studying the Bible. Starting to make a turn back? Great!” Trump wrote on Twitter.

Numerous states introducing Bible Literacy classes, giving students the option of studying the Bible. Starting to make a turn back? Great!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 28, 2019

Trump’s tweet came roughly a half-hour after North Dakota state Rep. Aaron McWilliams (R) appeared on “Fox & Friends.” McWilliams is co-sponsoring a measure in North Dakota to support Bible literacy classes.

Similar measures have been introduced in Missouri, Indiana, West Virginia, Virginia and Florida.

USA Today reported that the proposals would require or encourage public schools to offer elective classes on the Bible, with a focus on its historical significance.

Critics of the measures have argued that they could violate the constitutional separation between church and state, USA Today reported.

Trump has often courted the support of evangelical leaders, with many defending him despite criticism over his rhetoric toward immigrants and on the campaign trail.