18 Historical US Politicians Who Openly Identified as Atheists

Amy LewisNov 28, 2023

Minute Read

The majority of American politicians openly identify with religious beliefs, predominantly Christianity. However, there exists a select group of leaders who, despite the often deeply religious landscape of American politics, have openly professed atheism. In this exploration, we delve into the lives and political journeys of 18 U.S. politicians who courageously embraced atheism, paving the way for discussions on the separation of church and state, tolerance, and the intersection of faith and politics.

Charles Lee Smith

Charles Lee Smith was a prominent freethinker, atheist, and advocate for secularism in the early 20th century. He founded the first openly atheist organization in the United States, the American Association for the Advancement of Atheism, in 1925. Smith was unapologetic about his atheism, advocating for the separation of church and state.

Pete Stark

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Former Congressman Pete Stark from California made history as the first openly atheist member of Congress. Stark’s advocacy for healthcare reform and his support for secular values helped pave the way for future non-religious politicians.

Barney Frank

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Barney Frank, a former Democratic representative from Massachusetts, was one of the first openly gay members of Congress. He identified as an atheist and was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, demonstrating that one’s personal beliefs should not hinder their political career.

Julian Bond

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A civil rights activist and Georgia state legislator, Julian Bond, openly identified as an atheist. His contributions to the civil rights movement and his work in the Georgia House of Representatives made him a respected figure in both politics and social justice.

James Forman

James Forman, a civil rights leader and a member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, was openly atheist. His activism in the Civil Rights Movement and his work on behalf of the underprivileged showcased the intersection of his non-religious beliefs and his commitment to social change.

Julian Huxley

Julian Huxley, an evolutionary biologist, author, and humanist, was known for his contributions to science and his humanist philosophy. Although not a politician in the traditional sense, his influence extended to policy decisions and scientific advancement.

Billy Nelsen

Billy Nelsen was a member of the Nevada State Assembly and became the first openly atheist state legislator in the United States. His election marked a significant moment in the acceptance of non-religious politicians.

William O. Douglas

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William O. Douglas, a U.S. Supreme Court justice, was known for his support of the separation of church and state. His decisions on the Supreme Court reflected his commitment to secular values and constitutional principles.

Benjamin Wade

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Benjamin Wade was a senator from Ohio and openly professed atheism during the 19th century. Wade was instrumental in various legislative matters and played a key role during the Reconstruction era.

A. Philip Randolph

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Philip Randolph was a civil rights activist and labor leader who openly embraced atheism. He is best known for his work in organizing the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.

O’Hair Family

Madalyn Murray O’Hair, along with her son Jon Garth Murray and granddaughter Robin Murray, were prominent atheists and advocates for the separation of church and state. Their legal battles, including Murray v. Curlett, led to the removal of organized prayer in public schools.

James Randi

James Randi, a magician, author, and skeptic, was openly atheist and dedicated his life to debunking paranormal and supernatural claims. Although not a politician, his influence extended to critical thinking and rationalism in society.

Dan Savage

Dan Savage is a writer, media pundit, and LGBTQ+ activist. He has openly identified as an atheist and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and secularism in the United States.

Ernestine L. Rose

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Ernestine L. Rose was a 19th-century suffragist and abolitionist who openly professed atheism. Her contributions to women’s rights and her role in the women’s suffrage movement made her a trailblazer in both politics and secularism.

James Hervey Johnson

James Hervey Johnson was a U.S. Congressman from California during the 19th century. He was open about his agnostic beliefs and advocated for policies that aligned with his secular values.

Charles Bradlaugh

Though not a U.S. politician, Charles Bradlaugh, a British political activist and atheist, had a significant influence on secularism and freethought in the United States. His work contributed to the rise of atheism as a recognized perspective in American politics.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a women’s rights pioneer and suffragist, was also known for her secular beliefs. Stanton’s advocacy for gender equality was closely intertwined with her rejection of religious orthodoxy.

Margaret Sanger

Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, was open about her secular views. Her work in promoting reproductive rights and family planning reshaped the political and social landscape, highlighting the compatibility of atheism and political advocacy.