The Texas State Board of Education will include conservative activist David Barton as one of its expert advisers during the upcoming revision of social studies standards, set for completion in 2026. Barton, founder of the Christian advocacy group WallBuilders, has argued that the United States was founded as a Christian nation and rejects mainstream interpretations of church-state separation.
Republican board members Brandon Hall and Julie Pickren announced Barton’s appointment, saying his perspective reflects their districts’ priorities. Hall noted that feedback on Barton’s role has been “very glad and all positive.” Pickren did not comment. Barton previously advised the board during the 2010 standards review.
Historians have criticized Barton for lacking formal training and for past work, including his 2012 book The Jefferson Lies, which was pulled by its publisher for unsupported claims. His inclusion comes amid growing efforts by Texas Republicans to integrate Christian values into public education.
The Texas Freedom Network condemned the appointment, warning it could turn the standards process into “a political swamp of misinformation.” The board is scheduled to vote on the new framework in June 2026, with implementation planned for 2030.
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