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9th Circuit Sides With Christian Group in Job Discrimination Suit

9th Circuit Sides With Christian Group in Job Discrimination Suit
Above: A view of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on June 12, 2017. Image credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Spin

Progressive narrative

This decision has limited implications for now, but sets a dangerous precedent. Conservative activists and religious organizations will inevitably try to expand a narrow, common-sense rule such as the ministerial exception into a broad license to discriminate and circumvent civil rights laws under the guise of religious freedom.

Conservative narrative

The 9th Circuit has simply upheld the constitutional principle that faith-based groups can choose to hire like-minded employees for positions with vital religious duties. Had this lawsuit been successful, this would have been in breach of both Title VII and the church autonomy doctrine.

Metaculus Prediction


Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO



© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0