Oaths and pledges have been routine for political officials. That's changing in a polarized America
Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft speaks to reporters on June 29, 2022, at his Capitol office in Jefferson City, Mo. Disagreements over abortion rights, gun control and treatment of racial minorities are just some of the issues that have caused several political leaders to say they can’t take an oath or recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Some Republicans, including Ashcroft, a candidate for governor in Missouri, point to amendments enshrining abortion rights in state constitutions. (AP Photo/David A. Lieb, File)
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