RELIGION

Jeb Bush message to graduates: Stronger 'Christian voice' needed in world

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, at podium, delivers the commencement address at Liberty University in Williams Stadium at the school in Lynchburg, Va., Saturday, May 9, 2015. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (The Associated Press)

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush delivers the commencement address at Liberty University in Williams Stadium at the school in Lynchburg, Va., Saturday, May 9, 2015. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (The Associated Press)

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush listens to his introduction before giving the commencement address at Liberty University in Williams Stadium at the school in Lynchburg, Va., Saturday, May 9, 2015. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) (The Associated Press)

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is condemning the Obama administration's use of "coercive federal power" to limit religious freedom as he courts Christian conservatives ahead of a likely presidential run.

The Republican White House prospect lashed out at the Democratic president's administration for "demanding obedience in complete disregard of religious conscience" as he delivered a Saturday commencement address at Liberty University, a Christian institution founded by the late conservative culture warrior Rev. Jerry Falwell.

More broadly, Bush said "the Christian voice" isn't heard enough in the world.

Bush is preparing to enter a presidential contest that includes Republican competitors considered far more popular with the GOP's religious right. They all criticize Obama's health care overhaul which requires some religion-affiliated organizations to provide health insurance for employees that includes birth control.