Sen. Kelly Objects to Gov. Lamont’s “Mother Teresa” Comment, Calls for Respectful Dialogue on Religion

September 29, 2021

Sen. Kelly Objects to Gov. Lamont’s “Mother Teresa” Comment, Calls for Respectful Dialogue on Religion - CT Senate Republic

Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) responded to comments made today by Governor Ned Lamont at a press conference when talking about state employees with a religious exemption to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. When discussing the number of state employees with a religious exemption Gov. Lamont said, “Is this something that’s being exploited or are these a very small group of Mother Teresas who have come forward and feel deeply.” (Watch it here.)

 

“I take exception to governor’s snide remark calling individuals who claim a religious exemption to the COVID-19 vaccine ‘Mother Teresas,’ ” said Sen. Kelly. “Mother Teresa dedicated her life to service. She is an international role model of faith, humility, and charity. She is recognized as a Saint in the Roman Catholic Church. Her life must be emulated not denigrated as a joke or used as a veiled sarcastic insult. Religious freedom is a core value of our nation. Government has no business judging someone’s religious beliefs, let alone joking or laughing at them. As the leader of our state, I expect much more from the Governor when it comes to respecting people’s religion and faith.”