Onward Christian Soldiers: Pawlenty Accused of Diverting Money Supporting Troops to Office Supporting Religious Organization

Gov. Tim Pawlenty appears to have a broader definition of who constitutes his “troops” in Minnesota. Sen. Don Betzold, has accused Pawlenty of diverting funds from the “Support Our Troops” license plate program to his Governor’s Office of Faith-Based Initiatives. The office works to connect religious organizations with state funds — organizations viewed as a critical part of the Republican political base.

Minnesota law mandates that the money is to go to support the Department of Military Affairs and the Department of Veterans Affairs.” Of course, Karl Rove has shown that religious organizations and voters considered the troops for the GOP, so he may be able to defend the diversion as a simple matter of interpretation.

Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!
Refrain:
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
At the sign of triumph Satan’s host doth flee;
On then, Christian soldiers, on to victory!
Hell’s foundations quiver at the shout of praise;
Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise.
Like a mighty army moves the church of God;
Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.
We are not divided, all one body we,
One in hope and doctrine, one in charity.
Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane,
But the church of Jesus constant will remain.
Gates of hell can never ’gainst that church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise, and that cannot fail.
Onward then, ye people, join our happy throng,
Blend with ours your voices in the triumph song.
Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King,
This through countless ages men and angels sing.

For the story, click here.