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Did Wisconsin Assemblyman Cross Line in Encouraging People to Consider Christianity?

Rep. Scott Allen (R-Waukesha)

Republican Rep. Scott Allen of Waukesha used state equipment to produce and post a Christmas video that cites Bible verses and invites non-believers to become Christians, according to Assembly Speaker Robin Vos.

In the video, Allen says, "For those who may watch this and are not Christians, I invite you to consider the hope offered by the Prince of Peace."

Vos says he thinks the message is appropriate and people are making too much of it. 

The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed a complaint insisting Allen used his official capacity and state resources 'to proselytize.'

Part of the letter the foundation's Dan Barker and Annie Laurie Gaylor wrote to Vos states that "while Allen is free to promote his personal religious beliefs on his own time, it is inappropriate to do so when he is afforded a special platform due to his elected position." The two claim the production amounts to government sponsoring a religious message.

Vos says Allen used the Assembly's studio and equipment in the Capitol to produce the video and posted it on the Assembly GOP's You Tube channel. Several representatives posted Christmas messages to constituents.