### Controversial Bible Purchase in Oklahoma Schools Sparks Debate Over Trump Endorsement

A major controversy has erupted in Oklahoma after investigative journalists revealed that the Bibles promoted by former President Donald Trump appear to be the only ones that satisfy the criteria set for volumes the state intends to buy for its public schools.

The revelations have cast a spotlight on Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters' plan to spend millions in taxpayer funds on religious books for educational institutions. Critics argue that this move aims to advance a Christian nationalist agenda within the Republican Party, aligning with broader efforts by such forces.

Earlier this week, a bidding process commenced to secure a supplier for 55,000 Bibles specified for the state's Department of Education. Detailed requirements for these Bibles include being the King James Version, containing both the Old and New Testaments, and including vital American historical documents such as the Pledge of Allegiance, Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Furthermore, these Bibles must be bound in a leather or leather-like material.

Investigations led to the discovery that none of the 2,900 Bibles available at Mardel Christian & Education met these specific criteria. However, the God Bless the USA Bible, endorsed by Trump and commonly known as the Trump Bible, fits the bill perfectly. Priced at $60 each online, the Trump Bible includes additional fees for Trump’s endorsement, making it the only suitable option. Another Bible, the We The People Bible, also endorsed by Trump, was priced at $90 but was unavailable at Mardel.

Ryan Walters' explicit support for Trump has also raised eyebrows. Walters remarked, "We are going to be so proud here in Oklahoma to be the first state in the country to bring the Bible back to every single classroom and every state should be doing this... President Trump praised our efforts. President Trump has been the leader on this issue."

The controversy has prompted civil rights groups to voice their opposition. Organizations like the ACLU and Americans United have been particularly vocal, emphasizing the dangers of enforcing Christian teachings in public schools. A coalition has requested records relating to Walters’ announced funding for the Bible mandate, which was discussed at a September 26 meeting where the Oklahoma State Board of Education approved a $3 million budget request for the 2025-26 fiscal year to supply Bibles.

Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United, condemned the move, stating, "Oklahoma taxpayers should not be forced to bankroll Superintendent Walters' Christian nationalist agenda. His latest scheme to mandate use of the Bible in Oklahoma public school curriculum is a transparent, unlawful effort to indoctrinate and religiously coerce public school students. Not on our watch. Public schools are not Sunday schools."

This unfolding issue highlights the complex interplay between religion and education, raising significant legal and ethical questions about the appropriate use of taxpayer money and the separation of church and state.