Sen. Kaine Compares U.S. Founding Rights to Iran's Theocracy

Senator Tim Kaine sparked controversy during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing when he criticized the principle that natural rights come from God, a core tenet of the Declaration of Independence, calling it "extremely troubling" and comparing it to the Iranian theocratic regime. Kaine argued that the idea of rights deriving from a Creator rather than laws or government mirrors Iran's use of Shia law to justify religious persecution. His remarks came in response to Riley Barnes, a Trump nominee, who echoed Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement emphasizing the U.S. founding on God-given rights. The comments provoked backlash from conservatives, legal experts, and other senators, including Ted Cruz, who defended the founding principle as fundamental to American identity. Critics accused Kaine of misunderstanding the nation's founding values, with some calling for his removal from office. The incident highlights ongoing partisan tensions over the interpretation of America's foundational documents and principles.