Separation of Church and State

Consider the examples in the film of the two candidates and other individuals depicted in the film as expressing religious points of view. Republican legislator Rick Green is portrayed as devoutly religious. During a campaign appearance, his opponent PatrickRose also declared that he was baptized and confirmed in his hometown’s United Methodist Church. Why are the religious views of the candidates an issue in this campaign? In your community, do candidates declare their religious affiliations as part of who they are and what they bring to the voters? Is religious affiliation important to you in choosing a candidate? Why or why not? What do you think of “separation of church and state” as it relates to political campaigns?