A lawsuit initiated to strike the phrase "under God" from the United States Pledge of Allegiance propelled physician and attorney Michael Newdow into national prominence. This legal challenge, centered on the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, aimed to curtail religious references within public school ceremonies, marking the beginning of a persistent campaign against government-sanctioned religious expression.
Background and Education
Born in 1953 in New York City, Newdow moved to Teaneck, New Jersey, in 1960. Following his graduation from Teaneck High School, he enrolled at Brown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biology in 1974. He subsequently attended the UCLA School of Medicine, receiving his M.D. in 1978. His professional training concluded at the University of Michigan Law School, where he obtained a J.D. in 1988.
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Newdow founded the First Atheist Church of True Science in 1997 to promote the separation of church and state. He famously contested the inclusion of "under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance. While an initial Ninth Circuit decision favored his argument, the Supreme Court of the United States later overruled it, citing his lack of legal standing. Later efforts, including lawsuits against presidential inauguration prayers and the use of "In God We Trust" on currency, were similarly unsuccessful in federal courts.
Professional Practice
Alongside his legal advocacy, Newdow maintains a career in medicine. He has served as an emergency room physician across various hospitals and holds medical licenses in California and several other states. He gained admission to the State Bar of California on July 29, 2002, and remains an active member. He also serves on the Advisory Board of the Secular Coalition for America.
Fast facts
- Born: 1953, New York City
- Undergraduate Degree: Brown University, 1974
- Medical Degree: UCLA School of Medicine, 1978
- Law Degree: University of Michigan Law School, 1988
- Bar Admission: California, 2002
- Religious Affiliation: Atheism
- Organization: First Atheist Church of True Science
Questions readers ask
What is the basis of Michael Newdow's legal arguments?
He argues that government-sanctioned religious phrases like 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance or on currency violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.
Is Michael Newdow still a practicing physician?
Yes, he holds medical licenses in California and other states and has worked as an emergency room physician.
