An Iowa lawmaker has called for the immediate removal of a Satanic display from the state's capitol building. Representative Brad Sherman has demanded that Governor Kim Reynolds take down the Satanic Temple's controversial statue of Baphomet, along with its accompanying holiday wreath. The display has sparked widespread outrage and disgust among the public.
The display, installed by the Iowa chapter of the Satanic Temple, features a mirrored, caped statue of Baphomet, complete with a black and red "holiday wreath" with a pentagram in the center. It is permitted in the capitol for a period of two weeks. The Satanic Temple has also posted the words "Happy Holidays!" on their Facebook page, claiming to be "proud to participate in the festivities" this holiday season.
However, Representative Sherman has strongly condemned the display, calling it "disgusting" and insisting that it should not be allowed in a government building. He argues that the display goes against the values and beliefs of the majority of Iowans, and violates the state's constitution.
According to Sherman, the Iowa Constitution establishes the legal foundation for all state laws and recognizes "One Supreme God" as the source of all blessings for the state. He believes that allowing a Satanic display in the capitol goes against this principle and offends the very God upon whom the state depends for blessings.
Sherman is also calling for legislation to be passed that would prohibit Satanic displays in all government buildings and on state-owned property. He is also pushing for a law that would allow the Ten Commandments to be displayed in the capitol, other government buildings, and public schools.
The Satanic Temple, a national group that seeks to normalize and promote Satan worship, has been using free speech laws to argue for equal treatment for their beliefs. They claim that their religion should be respected and allowed in public spaces just like traditional religions.
The Satanic Temple is known for its controversial actions, such as launching After School Satan Clubs in schools and promoting an "abortion ritual" for women who take abortion pills. The group believes that abortion is a religious rite and should be protected as such.
Sherman's call for the removal of the Satanic display has sparked a heated debate in Iowa. While some argue that free speech and freedom of religion should allow the display to stay, others believe that it goes against the state's values and should be taken down.
Governor Reynolds has not yet responded to Sherman's demand to remove the Satanic display, but it is likely that the issue will continue to generate controversy and discussion in the coming days.