Missouri attorney general applauds ruling on Pledge of Allegiance

The Associated Pres

FARMINGTON, Mo. -- Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster said a judge was correct in dismissing a lawsuit over the Pledge of Allegiance.

Last week, Judge Bernhardt Drumm Jr. dismissed a suit against another judge, Kenneth Pratte of St. Francois County, over Pratte's practice of beginning each day in court with the Pledge of Allegiance.

The attorney general's office defended Pratte in the suit filed by Robert Stamm Sr. and Robert Stamm Jr. The men claimed a violation of their First Amendment rights.

Koster said the decision protects the rights of the judiciary and citizens to express patriotism.

The Stamms did not have listed phone numbers. Their attorney did not return a phone call seeking comment.