House Republicans propose resolution to protect Christmas

WASHINGTON - Do you say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?

The heated political discourse surrounding the holiday greeting has transformed the meaning of Merry Christmas, for many, into a political statement.

Schools across the country have banned everything from Christmas trees to Santa Claus, and cities and towns host "holiday tree" lightings.

Some say it is about welcoming those of all faiths in these public spaces, but others say it is about the separation of church and state.

But was the intention of the First Amendment actually to prohibit the discussion of religion or God in the civic space?

More than 30 Republicans in Congress say no, and they have co-sponsored a resolution stating that the House of Representatives:

1. Recognizes the importance of the symbols and traditions of Christmas.
2. Strongly disapproves of attempts to ban references to Christmas.
3. Expresses support for the use of these symbols and traditions by those who celebrate Christmas.

We conducted a Twitter poll, and 75 percent of those who responded say they say Merry Christmas and 25 percent say Happy Holidays.