Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) said Thursday he opposes the Republican measure that seeks to reaffirms the country's "In God We Trust" motto. The resolution overwhelmingly passed the House on Wednesday, attracting only nine "no" votes. Paul, who is running for president, missed the vote.
Paul said he didn't think the resolution was necessary, saying he wouldn't have brought it up.
"I would have voted 'no' not because I don't like the motto and don't think we can use it but 'no' because we were telling the states what to do," Paul told The Hill.
The GOP measure stands behind the national motto, which is used in public schools, public buildings and other government institutions.
President Obama on Wednesday mocked the House for voting on the measure instead of focusing on job creation.
The only Republican to reject the resolution was freshman Rep. Justin Amash (Mich.), who has endorsed Paul for president.
