Statement Regarding Proposal by the McDowell Commissioners to Display the 10 Commandments in Pubic Buildings in McDowell County
by the McDowell County Democratic Party

December 12, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
McDowell County Democratic Party
Marion, North Carolina

McDowell Commissioners Consider Posting Ten Commandments in Schools, County Buildings

Marion, NC — At the December 8 meeting of the McDowell County Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Tony Brown introduced a proposal calling for the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all county buildings and public schools. All current commissioners are Republicans.

The proposal drew immediate concern from two commissioners, who urged that the matter not proceed to a vote but instead be tabled for review by the county attorney, citing significant legal and community implications.

The McDowell County Democratic Party, along with many moderate and progressive unaffiliated voters, strongly opposes this measure for several key reasons:

1. Constitutional Concerns

The proposal violates the separation of church and state, a foundational principle of the U.S. Constitution. Federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have repeatedly ruled that posting the Ten Commandments in public schools or government buildings can constitute unconstitutional government endorsement of religion.

2. Exclusion of Non-Christian Residents

While the Ten Commandments are important to certain faith traditions, they do not represent the beliefs of all residents. There are more than 4,000 religions and belief systems worldwide, and McDowell County is home to people of many diverse faith backgrounds—including Christians, non-Christians, and those who do not practice a religion. Government promotion of a single religious text marginalizes these community members.

3. Potential Legal and Financial Consequences

Counties that have enacted similar measures have faced costly lawsuits, resulting in expenses ultimately borne by taxpayers. McDowell County should not risk legal liability over an unnecessary and divisive issue.

4. Misplaced Priorities

At a time when McDowell County faces real challenges—economic development, public safety, infrastructure needs, education, and access to services—residents expect commissioners to focus on practical governance, not symbolic culture-war proposals.

A Call for New Leadership

This proposal underscores the urgent need for new voices in county leadership—leaders who reflect the diversity of McDowell County, respect constitutional boundaries, and prioritize meaningful solutions over political theater.

As the proposal awaits further review, McDowell Democrats encourage residents to stay engaged, speak out, and consider stepping forward to run for office.

Contact:
McDowell County Democratic Party
Email: mcdemsnc@gmail.com
Website: mcdemsnc.org