Michael Newdow

Michael newdow 2008

Michael Newdow is an American attorney, physician, and activist known for his efforts to challenge the inclusion of religious language in government practices. He gained national attention for his legal challenges against the phrase "under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance and the use of the phrase "In God We Trust" on U.S. currency.

Early Life and Education

Michael Newdow was born on June 24, 1953, in New York City. He attended Brown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He later attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Medicine, earning his M.D. degree. Newdow also holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School.

Legal Career

Newdow is best known for his legal activism concerning the separation of church and state. He has filed several lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of religious phrases in government-related contexts.

Pledge of Allegiance Case

In 2000, Newdow filed a lawsuit against the Elk Grove Unified School District in California, arguing that the inclusion of the phrase "under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The case, known as Elk Grove Unified School District v. Newdow, reached the Supreme Court of the United States in 2004. The Court ruled that Newdow did not have standing to bring the case on behalf of his daughter, thus avoiding a decision on the constitutionality of the phrase.

In God We Trust Case

Newdow also challenged the use of the national motto "In God We Trust" on U.S. currency. He argued that the phrase violated the Establishment Clause. However, his lawsuits on this issue have been unsuccessful, with courts ruling that the motto does not violate the Constitution.

Medical Career

In addition to his legal work, Newdow is a practicing emergency physician. He has worked in various hospitals and medical facilities, providing care to patients in emergency situations.

Activism and Public Speaking

Newdow is an outspoken advocate for the separation of church and state. He has participated in numerous public speaking engagements and debates, discussing his views on religious freedom and constitutional law.

Personal Life

Newdow resides in California. He continues to be active in both his legal and medical careers, as well as in his advocacy efforts.

See Also

• Elk Grove Unified School District v. Newdow
• Pledge of Allegiance
• First Amendment to the United States Constitution
• In God We Trust