In his "obiter dictum", Douglas postulated what the reasoning of the ruling might have on current government practices. He wrote: "The point for decision is whether the Government can constitutionally finance a religious exercise. Our system at the federal and state levels is presently honeycombed with such financing. Nevertheless, I think it is an unconstitutional undertaking whatever form it takes." In a footnote illustrating "such financing", he also noted that "The slogan 'In God We Trust' is used by the Treasury Department, and Congress recently added God to the pledge of allegiance", thereby calling those practices' constitutionality under question as well.