Sean Duffy’s Religious Agenda Raises Constitutional Concerns at Merchant Marine Academy

KINGS POINT, N.Y. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has sparked controversy at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy with his use of federal resources to promote his religious beliefs. Duffy, a former reality TV star and Fox News host, is using his position to advance his agenda among future mariners.

During a recent visit to the academy, Duffy filmed a video for Good Friday in which he discussed faith with midshipmen, promoting a message to embrace traditional family values. Critics claim Duffy’s activities violate the Constitution’s separation of church and state. Legal experts have pointed out that promoting Christianity in a government setting undermines the First Amendment rights of all students.

In early 2023, Duffy aimed to draw attention to a painting called “Christ on the Water,” hanging in a chapel-like space, which has become a focal point of the debate. Following a complaint from multiple alumni and civil liberties advocates, Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan ordered drapes to cover the painting, leading to outrage from religious conservatives in Congress.

In response, Duffy vowed to restore the painting to a prominent position and even commissioned a replica to hang in his office, claiming, “This was a personal affront to the midshipman at the academy.” The painting’s return to visibility generated a wave of support from Duffy’s allies, while stirring discontent among religious minorities within the academy.

The controversy heightened during Duffy’s speech at a graduation ceremony, where he reiterated that faith and family are paramount, urging graduates to get married and have large families. Critics from various backgrounds, including legal and civil rights experts, have stated that such messages risk coercing non-Christian students into uncomfortable positions regarding their own beliefs.

While Duffy has celebrated his influence among the religious right, observers warn that his actions could place undue pressure on midshipmen from diverse faiths. “We have an Establishment Clause for a reason. The government can’t force you to choose between your job and honoring your beliefs,” said Caroline Mala Corbin, a University of Miami law professor.

As the debate continues, there are growing calls for accountability regarding Duffy’s actions and their implications for the future of religious expression in federal institutions. The Department of Transportation has yet to issue a comment on the matter.