Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick publicly announced that Carrie Prejean Boller has been removed from President Donald Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission, describing the move as his decision following what he characterized as inappropriate conduct during a recent hearing on antisemitism.
In a statement posted to X, Patrick said no commission member has the authority to redirect official proceedings to advance a personal or political agenda. He wrote that Monday’s hearing crossed that line “clearly, without question,” and confirmed that he made the call to remove her.
Patrick also defended the broader work of the commission, noting that five hearings have already taken place and two more are scheduled. He said testimony before the panel has been both “illuminating and heartbreaking,” particularly regarding claims that religious liberties were constrained under the Biden administration across sectors including education, the military, private business, and ministry.
Looking ahead, Patrick stated that the commission plans to deliver what he described as one of the most significant reports in American history to the president later this spring. He praised Trump for creating the body and framed the commission’s mission as a defense of First Amendment protections and religious freedom.
Carrie Prejean Boller quickly disputed Patrick’s authority to remove her. In a public response addressed directly to the lieutenant governor, she argued that because members were appointed by the president under an executive order, only the president has the power to dismiss them. She wrote that Patrick “lack[s] authority” to remove her and accused him of exceeding his role.
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick makes a quick stop in Lubbock, Texas to discuss wins for the West Texas region from the 89th Session of the Texas Legislature during a news conference on June 6, 2025.
Boller further alleged that Patrick’s actions align with what she described as a “Zionist political framework” and insisted she would continue to serve unless she receives formal written notice from the president requesting her removal. She maintained that her position reflects deeply held religious beliefs and argued that disciplining her for those views contradicts the commission’s stated purpose of safeguarding religious liberty.
The exchange highlights a public dispute over governance and authority within the Religious Liberty Commission, as well as broader tensions surrounding its recent antisemitism hearing. As of now, it remains unclear whether the White House will issue an official clarification regarding Boller’s status.
