Since debuting in November of last year, Leah Remini’s series “Scientology and the Aftermath” has been a hit, acting as a comprehensive expose of the Church of Scientology, their recruitment tactics, cult behavior, and how they combat dissent.
The now Emmy-winning show’s second season just ended, and while the show aims to raise awareness about the danger the Church of Scientology poses (primarily to their own members), it very well could have influenced some long-overdue political change when it comes to the organization.
According to the Daily Wire, “Trump administration official Lynne Patton said that President Trump believes the tax exempt status of the Church of Scientology should be revoked.
In a report that’s part attempted hit-piece on the Trump administration and part exposé on the sketchy tax dealings of Hollywood’s most influential cult, the Huffington Post details a back and forth between Patton, a ‘loyal family aide’ and Department of Housing and Urban Development official, and “King of Queens” star Leah Remini, a former Scientologist who wants to see the infamously secretive organization brought to justice.”
Patton wrote, “From The moment I saw your series I told President Trump & his family we needed to revoke their tax exempt status. They couldn’t agree more, but please don’t publicize that yet,” wrote Patton. “I want to do more due diligence on what the IRS has attempted in the past (or maybe you can enlighten me), then I’ll identify who we need to connect with again.” She continued, following that up with an email stating that she’ll “die trying” to get the organization’s tax-exempt status revoked.
Scientology is not recognized as a religion in Belgium, Chile, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Israel, Ireland, Mexico, Norway, Poland, Romania. Many of those countries officially designate the organization a “cult.”
It wasn’t until 1993 that the U.S. began giving the group the tax status legitimate religious institutions enjoy today. The group had initially obtained it in 1950s, lost it for a decade, then regained it following a 26-year feud with the IRS.
Emperor Xenu could not be reached for comment.
What do you think? Should the Church of Scientology be denied tax-exempt status? Tell us your thoughts below!
