Candidate's Religious Beliefs Become Issue In Texas Judicial Race

This week's Texas Lawyer reports that religion has been raised as an issue in a race for appellate court judge for the 6th Court of Appeals in east Texas. An online newsletter issued by the Republican Party of Texas criticized Democratic criticized judicial nominee E. Ben Franks, saying he "is reported to be a professed atheist" and apparently believes the Bible is a "collection of myths." It goes on to say: "Should Franks be elected in November, one would have to conclude that he will hold true to his out of touch 'atheist' belief system and ignore the laws and Constitution of Texas." Franks says he has never professed to be an atheist, but that his religious beliefs are his private business. He says that he does strongly support separation of church and state.