Dec. 10 (UPI) — A South Carolina atheist is suing for the right to serve as a poll worker without having to swear an oath to God.
James Reel alleges a requirement that citizens make a statement of belief in a monotheistic deity or forgo working at the polls violates the constitutional rights of nontheists or those who worship more than one deity.
The Greenville County resident became passionate about defending the American form of governing after observing negative political rhetoric during the 2020 election designed to undermine public trust in the electoral process, according to his suit. Reel decided to train as a poll worker.
But after completing three online courses in December 2023 and beginning in-person training, Reel learned he would be required to take an oath that ends with “so help me God.” He asked instead to be allowed to use a secular affirmation, which is a solemn vow without reference to a religious deity, but election officials denied the request…