Trump Signs Executive Order Giving Religious Groups Freedom of Speech

Trump signed an executive order today giving tax-exempt religious groups more freedom to voice their political opinions, as well as relaxing the mandate that companies provide free contraception to female employees under ObamaCare. The Handmaid's Tale is real and happening as we speak.

According to NBC News, an earlier draft of the order reportedly would have allowed federal contractors to discriminate against LGBTQ employees if their religion dictated they do so. That part of the order didn't make the final cut, but the fact it was penned into an early draft speaks miles.

"Today, my administration is leading by example, as we take extraordinary steps to protect religious liberty in the United States of America," said President Trump in the White House Rose Garden this morning, addressing an assembly of religious leaders and White House staff. "Faith is deeply embedded into the history of our country, the spirit of our founding and the soul of our nation," he continued. "We will not allow people of faith to be targeted, bullied or silenced anymore."

Trumps executive order, titled "Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty," makes good on a campaign promise to dismantle the Johnson Amendment, which forbids tax-exempt groups like churches from engaging in political discussion or action. The executive order relaxes that ban, but to officially repeal the Amendment Trump would need to go through Congress.

Trump's order also allows companies to withhold free contraceptives from female employees--something these companies were required to offer under ObamaCare--if the mandate is at odds with their religious beliefs. So, again, I say, The Handmaid's Tale is happening.

If you're in the mood to feel nauseous, watch Trump's full speech, here, or watch highlights of the signing ceremony, below.