Satanic Holiday Displays in Minnesota and New Hampshire Ignite Legal and Public Backlash

Controversial displays by Satanist groups highlight First Amendment tensions as cities face criticism and vandalism incidents.

Satanist groups in Minnesota and New Hampshire erected holiday displays on public property, citing First Amendment protections for religious expression.
The New Hampshire display, featuring a Baphomet statue, was vandalized multiple times shortly after its installation and later removed due to damage.
Minnesota's display at the State Capitol included a phoenix and text from a Satanic ritual, prompting criticism from Republican lawmakers and religious groups.
Local officials in both states approved the displays to avoid legal challenges, with plans to reconsider policies on unattended holiday displays next year.
The Satanic Temple and affiliated groups argue their displays promote religious plurality, while opponents claim they are provocative and politically motivated.