Political action group for atheists takes shape

Parsippany, N.J. — The president of American Atheists announced March 9 the formation of the Godless Americans Political Action Committee and said its leaders will examine candidates’ stands on issues related to church-state separation.

“Just like gun owners are speaking out on legislation that affects them, along with gays and blacks and women and every other interest group in this country, we want our fellow nonbelievers to get used to speaking out on behalf of their interests,” said Ellen Johnson, president of the New Jersey-based atheists’ organization and executive director of the new committee.

American Atheists intends to register voters at its annual convention in April in San Diego and the PAC will encourage atheists to run for office.