Faith

Mormon Church Bans its Leaders From Politics

Mormon Church Bans its Leaders From Politics

Former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman

SALT LAKE CITY (The Blaze/AP) – The Mormon church is reminding its senior leaders that they should steer clear of politics as a campaign season ramps up and two of the faith’s own compete for the GOP presidential nomination.

In a letter sent June 16, church president Thomas S. Monson and his senior counselors said lay leaders with full-time church responsibilities and their spouses should not participate in political campaigns, including “promoting candidates, fundraising, speaking on behalf of or otherwise endorsing candidates and making financial contributions.”

Mormon Church Bans its Leaders From Politics

Former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney

The letter was sent to the highest officers of the Utah-based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including general authorities, general auxiliary leaders, mission presidents and temple presidents — those whose positions are visible highly visible both in and out of the church and who could be seen as acting on behalf of the church.

Full-time church employees and part-time leaders, such as those who hold local or regional congregational duties are exempt from the policy.

Excerpts of the letter are included in a lengthy explanation of the church’s political neutrality policy posted on a church website. The letter is described as a “restatement and further clarification” of existing policy “at the start of another political season.”

Under the political neutrality policy, the institutional church does not endorse individual political candidates or parties. It also bans the use of church buildings or church-generated information for political purposes and asks candidates to refrain from making statements or inferences that suggest they have the church’s support.

The Mormon church does, however, engage in political activism or campaigns when its leaders believe an issue of moral importance is at stake.

That would include the faith’s involvement in the 2008 ballot initiative Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage in California and its efforts to defeat the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s.

Political experts say the timing of the letter and a restatement of church policy should come as no surprise.

Two Mormons — former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman— have jumped into the race for the Republican presidential nomination.

“It‘s not unusual for the LDS church to do this and I think given the fact that you’ve got two very high profile candidates in the presidential race, that‘s a circumstance where they’re saying, ‘Oh, we’d better remind people what the rules are,’” University of Utah political science professor Matthew Burbank said.

The letter reminds the faith’s lay leaders that when they do choose to engage in political activity they are acting “solely as individual citizens in the democratic process” and should not “imply, or otherwise allow others to infer, that their actions or support in any way represent the church.”

It‘s not clear whether the statement is also a response to criticisms of the church’s involvement in Prop. 8, but regardless, Burbank said it‘s in the faith’s best interest to draw a bright line so its members and leaders understand the rules.

It also helps candidates Huntsman and Romney who likely don’t want their campaigns to appear to be driven solely by Mormons, he said.

In a recent CNN Belief Blog piece, Boston University Scholar Stephen Prothero tackled the issue of Mormon involvement in Romney and Huntsman’s political campaigns. Aside from asking, “What sort of Mormon might be elected president?,” Prothero went on to recommend that both candidates should consider downplaying their faith identity in the 2012 campaign:

…there is a huge difference between considering a Mormon president in the abstract and considering a particular Mormon candidate. In other words, some of those who say that they would not vote for an otherwise qualified Mormon for president might vote for Romney or Huntsman.

This is more likely to happen, in my view, with a candidate who, like Kennedy, downplays his religious identity or one, like Obama, who downplays his racial identity–a luxury, I might add, that is not really available to female candidates

While some may believe that the Mormon Church is being extra careful not to hamper either candidate’s chances at securing the nomination, others claim that this sort of announcement isn’t all that surprising. Some political experts say no one should read too much into the church statement — although it may not have previously publicly stated in this way.

“I do not think there is anything new about this statement in terms of its substance. It is consistent with an LDS understanding of politics and the common good as well as the limitations of engaging in partisan politics placed on religious organizations by (Internal Revenue Service) regulations,” said Francis J. Beckwith, a Mormon who is also a professor of philosophy and church-state studies at Baylor University. “What I think the LDS church is doing here is articulating in greater specificity what it’s always held in more general terms.”

The candidates, themselves, likely have some connections to Mormon higher-ups and, thus, are impacted by the regulations. For instance, there are implications for Huntsman’s family. UPI has more:

Huntsman’s father, a part-time church official, will be able to contribute to his son’s campaign, but the new policy would have prevented his late grandfather, David Haight, who was a church apostle, from making the donations he did to Huntsman’s 2004 gubernatorial campaign.

In the end, while the church does involve itself in theological battles, it does appear that neither Huntsman or Romney will receive much support from its leaders during the 2012 campaign.

Comments (177)

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  • ICEDRAGONNITE
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:06pm

    Is this your government too? IF SO GET INVOLVED. ALL CHURCHES MUST GET INVOLVED OR ISLAM WILL CRUSH YOU, US, “WE THE PEOPLE”

    Report Post » ICEDRAGONNITE  
  • REDEFINEDPATRIOTISM
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:04pm

    @Gonzo–

    I also believe the churches of this nation SHOULD remain neutral about politics and issues as much as possible. I further believe that it is up to the MEMBERS of a church to be directly involved in these type of moral issues. We then take what our faith teaches us about such issues as abortion and other moral issues and become examples of these teachings as we vote, support, protest, etc. such laws and proposals. It is the INDIVIDUAL who is responsible for making/blocking these laws/proposals. This is original intent of the Founding Fathers. We should only want our institutions of religion to focus on morals, virtues, character and God’s law. Until last year, I would have said churches had NO right to even SUGGEST how to vote, but it became about being able to teach and exemplify God’s Law freely or not at all. Once that was at risk, the church faced the possibility of being banned from practicing one of it’s greatest precepts within that state. Sad as I was to hear it, the church had to protect it‘s right to teach and act according to it’s most deeply held beliefs by becoming active where it had never done so before. I hope there is never a time when we ARE forced to choose between practicing our faith freely in a state or not at all. And I truly hope the church NEVER has cause to get involved in such matters again. But I also don’t believe anyone else should make a law restricting how I (or you or anyone else) can worship, either.

    Report Post »  
  • Netsurfer2
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:03pm

    I‘m not a part of LDS at all and I don’t believe you should have to belong to any church in order to want what is best of our country in going into the future. Having a personal relationship with God and gaining the kingdom of heaven is not based on “collective salvation”, but your heart being true in believing in Jesus Christ!

    Now you can believe what you want, it’s your choice, but in the end we all face judgement!

    I would rather be honest with myself.

    Report Post » Netsurfer2  
  • jethrObama
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:01pm

    I’m a Mormon. I go to church. This is not new. They always encourage leaders to stay out of politics, but they make it clear that being a good citizen means that you study the issues, pray, and vote.

    Report Post »  
  • LT-USPHS
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:53pm

    Of course the Church itself won’t be contributing to any campaigns, but individuals? I wonder what Ezra Taft Benson would say because I don’t think he would want Obama to win.

    Report Post » LT-USPHS  
    • TelepromoterNChief
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:59pm

      The thing that gets me, is that The Constitution has been for the most part, inspired by god as taught in Mormon doctrine.

      At what point, will Divine intervention step in to stop it’s utter destruction.

      Obama has relentlessly (in between rounds of golf, white hating parties and vacations) sought to tear it apart thread by thread.

      Report Post »  
    • Jabber
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:17pm

      Individual Church members can contribute all they like-in activism or monetary form AS LONG AS they (or their spouses) do not hold any of the positions of authority outlined in the memo. Mormons have no problem getting involved in politics and are encouraged to be active in their communities and governments.

      Report Post »  
    • LT-USPHS
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 7:02pm

      I’m pretty sure Ezra Taft Benson was involved in politics. If by politics we mean trying to elect someone who won’t use the Constitution for toilet paper, then I‘m not sure why Apostles and other high ranking leaders can’t contribute to who ever they want. How is it that lay members/leaders can try to elect someone who actually values the founding fathers, but an apostle is not allowed to send any donations or speak off pulpit about “politics.”
      These days it’s political speech to say things like “the founding fathers and the constitution are awesome! I think abortion is killing and hence, against the law. I don’t believe the law should allow gambling or gay marriage.”
      So…I‘m confused why an Apostles can’t support a candidate or political stance especially since political issues commonly intersect with moral issues.

      Report Post » LT-USPHS  
    • kramh
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 10:41am

      Folks, yot should read a talk given by Ezra Taft Benson from October 1980, Prepare for the Days of Tribulation. You can find it at lds.org

      Report Post »  
  • REDEFINEDPATRIOTISM
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:43pm

    I, like Gripegut, am a proud member of the LDS Church and can tell you that as long as I’ve been a member, this notice has been read in every congregation in the nation any year with a national election. It serves as a reminder that the church has no position or affiliation and we are to refrain from giving that impression in any way. It tells us to be informed about the issues/candidates we are voting for and to do our civic dute and vote, just not HOW. It has always reminded ME that I work, live, love, play and worship with people on both sides of the aisle and should afford others, whether of my faith/party/opinion or not, the same (if not better) respect that I expect and deserve. The members I personally know are like me in that they don’t vote by religious affiliation any more than they vote based on skin color or gender. Among my friends and family on both sides of the aisle, character and record speak louder than anything else. Currently, I personally am not convinced that either of these leaders is the man for the job. In the end, I will choose the person with the best qualifications, experience and record to lead this nation I love so much back to greatness and strength. I hope all of you do the same! :)

    Report Post »  
    • ShockNAwe
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 12:05am

      REDEFINEDPATRIOTISM
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:43pm

      I so agree.

      Report Post » ShockNAwe  
  • Baikonur
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:35pm

    A very wise and measured decision by the LDS.

    Report Post » Baikonur  
  • Jay Jay
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:28pm

    That makes sense. The Mormon church looks like they want to stay clear of its name being linked to a Politician. Can you blame them? This whole mormon thing is dumb anyway. Elect the best person to get us out of this economic mess! This is what the Obama administration wants, we the people talking about mormons rather than focusing on important issues.

    Report Post » Jay Jay  
    • Baikonur
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:47pm

      @Jay Jay
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:28pm
      ‘This whole mormon thing is dumb anyway.’
      ***************
      You know, I disagree completely. I think Mormonism is a fine religion. Its followers (with the exception of Glenn!) seem to work only for the public good. I love their commercials on TV–they never try to convince anyone about Jesus or Mormons–they just encourage you to be a nice, kind, good human being to others.

      Their one distinguishing characteristic seems to be that they found a new Gospel that makes America important in world history. It is a very nationalistic American Christian religion: America+Jesus+Ancient Israel, its history, its ‘lost tribes’ that we will appropriate for our redneck purposes’+abstinence of all sorts=salvation.
      It is a religion that elevates ‘Manifest Destiny’ and ;American exceptionalism’ to a religious level.

      For me, it obviously fake and comically grand. But I find all US Protestanism repugnant in its emphasis on hellfire and damnation.

      I gusss I need to reread Emerson.

      .

      Report Post » Baikonur  
    • HankScram
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 11:51pm

      We have to tell it like it is. Mormons WILL vote overwhelmingly for Romney or Huntsman, whoever is most likely to win the nomination.

      How do I know? In 2008 Mormons voted overwhelmingly – like 90-95% for Romney. They didn’t vote for other candidates or other Christians. Mormons will always vote for a conservative mormon over any other christian candidate when given a chance. 2008 proved that without a doubt. Look at the returns from the primary in Utah.

      That said, who cares? I‘m voting for Romney because he’s the best candidate out there hands down. Mormons may be a bunch of goofballs (in my opinion) as far as the ridiculous things they believe, but its all harmless. What matters is someone with the kind of experience Romney has to pull this Country out of this mess. I think he’s probably smart enough to have figured out mormonism is a bit of a con, but he has bigger fish to fry.

      Forget about the religion angle and look for the best candidate. The facts point to Romney.

      Report Post »  
  • AmeriCat
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:25pm

    The photographs of these two men, Romney and Huntsman, say it all.
    Romney: all photos…”nice person, pleasant” lines/wrinkles on face.
    Huntsman: all photos…”scowl, frown” lines/wrinkles
    …even when he has no emotion, his character reveals itself through his chronic facial lines.

    Report Post »  
  • Aerocog
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:20pm

    It’s usually good for a chruch to stir clear of poltics.

    Report Post »  
  • Gripegut
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:13pm

    I am a member of the LDS church and there is nothing new in this policy. This is the same policy that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have had for as long as I can remember.

    Report Post » Gripegut  
  • ExNYer1995
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:12pm

    It certainly wouldn’t hurt my feelings any to see Mitt Romney, Jon Huntsman – and Harry Reid – step aside…

    Report Post »  
  • Happymommaofalmost6
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:03pm

    People can say what they want about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. As a member I am proud to be LDS, and proud that our faith stays out of politics. Members can choose for themselves and even between spouses there are differences of opinion. I myself am not totally convinced of Mitt, and certainly not convinced Jon Huntsman. My husband on the other hand is leaning more towards Mitt than anyone else. It’s been fun to talk with him about the candidates. Ulitimately I get to choose who I think is best.

    Could you imagine a guy like Rev. Wright preaching at my church? LOL he would be booted out so fast your head would spin. Now that would make a great Broadway scene!

    Report Post »  
    • HankScram
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 11:59pm

      Well, guys like Reverand Wright did preach at your Church for many years. Brigham Young, one of your prophets, called blacks some horrible names and said that the punishment for a white man sleeping with a black woman is death. Other prophets stood in the Temple and stood before the LDS faithful and spouted racists doctrine for years – until 1978 I believe.

      The LDS Church was far more racist than Reverand Wright. From what I’ve read, the LDS Church has never apologized for excluding blacks from the LDS Priesthood until 1978. And I think its sad that the LDS religion was so far behind the change in America. I heard the Church only changed because its tax exempt status was in question as a result of its racist doctrine.

      But, I’m willing to overlook that and vote for the best person. As I’ve said, let’s keep religion out of this.

      Romney 2012!!!

      Report Post »  
    • abbygirl1994
      Posted on July 1, 2011 at 2:10am

      Do you have any idea what your talking about?? The Prophet Joseph Smith had a black woman work for him, she was the first black person to join the church if I recall and followed Brigham Young to Utah. I just don’t know where people get their facts??

      Report Post » abbygirl1994  
    • joel228
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 1:11am

      HankScram, you just told a whopper.

      Report Post » joel228  
    • HankScram
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 1:52am

      Blacks were excluded from the priesthood in the mormon church for many years after the Civil Rights Act. The mormon church was bringing up the rear on addressing the sin of slavery.

      The mormon prophets and Jeremiah Wright were both preaching hate and racism. If you’re man enough to point it out in the opposition, be man enough to admit it when its your side. Only when you admit it – yes, when you confess the sin – can you move forward. The mormon church ultimately must atone for that sin.

      But religion often has very little to do with God. I‘m not interested in a man’s religion. I’m interested in his relationship with God and his stance on the issues. Conservative values will save this country. Not someone’s particular religion.

      Report Post »  
    • joel228
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 10:53am

      HankScam, do you believe the LDS church even has the Priesthood of God?
      If we don‘t then aren’t you glad we are racist by withholding what we don’t have? Better that fewer people are deceived isn’t it?
      On the other hand if Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and others did receive it directly under the hand of resurrected beings then maybe your argument should be taken up with God as to how, to whom and when it should be given.

      I’ve been in the church my entire life and never have I heard preaching that even resembles Jeremiah Wright. I’ve read a lot from early church leaders and never seen anything remotely similar to Wright. I was on a mission in Venezuela in 1978 when all worthy male members (blacks) were granted the rights and responsibilities of holding the priesthood. No one I new was unhappy about that. Very much the opposite from a supposed racist church.

      Are you Christian? If so answer these.
      1) Was it racism for Jesus to not take the gospel to the gentile (non Jew)?
      2) Was it racism that Moses only granted the priesthood to the Levites?
      3) Is it sexism to withhold the priesthood from women?
      4) Assuming we really do have the priesthood was it planetist for God to withhold it from planet earth for centuries prior to the early 1800′s?
      5) Would you like to tell God he is racist?
      Either you are doing that or you are telling those who don‘t even have the priesthood to atone for not giving to all what they really don’t have.
      Which is it?

      Report Post » joel228  
    • joel228
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 12:59pm

      Also, I’m not sure what you mean by “bringing up the rear” when it comes to the sin of slavery. The Mormon church was hated in Missouri in large part because they opposed slavery. Never did they believe that one people should be in bondage to another. Also Joseph Smith prophesied about the civil war, where it would start, and what it would be about (slaves rising up). He did that over 30 years before the fact (D&C 87). And that prophesy has more yet to come including what leads up to a full end of all nations.

      Sounds like leading the pack to me.

      Report Post » joel228  
    • HankScram
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 4:09pm

      Joel228,

      It doesn’t matter anyway. I expressed some opinions, but the real issue facing our country is making sure we have leaders putting forward conservative values. I believe Romney has those values and the necessary experience to get this country back on track. Then, we can all argue over which religion is the true religion. First things first.

      Report Post »  
  • jacobstroubles
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:00pm

    Everybody do a little research on ‘THE WHITE HORSE PROPHECY”.

    Report Post »  
    • Big Tuna
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:34pm

      And you‘ll find that it’s bunk. Not LDS scripture. LDS don’t believe in it. Anti-LDS bigots are about the only ones who claim it’s prophecy.

      Report Post »  
    • Jabber
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:55pm

      Was wondering how long it would take the first nutball, anti-Mormon to post something about the White Horse Prophecy here in this thread. I should have started a pool……darn it! The WHP is not part of LDS doctrine or theology and has been thoroughly investigated and explained by tons of LDS scholars. Check out fairlds.org for apologetic arguments regarding LDS doctrine, by LDS scholars.

      But thanks for playing Jacob.

      Report Post »  
    • TelepromoterNChief
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:56pm

      Even IF it were true, it would/will take something that is well-managed to save the mess being made now.

      Obama ran in 2008 on vagueness and promises to every one and thing. If (being damn well-close) was able to deliver on everything, life as we know it would be absolute CHAOS for him to seize further control from.

      Cain was a spineless douchebag, but he still wasn’t as bad as Obama. People were fools to fall for Obama.

      Report Post »  
    • Spqr1
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:29pm

      I know Mormons who were taught THE WHITE HORSE PROPHECY as FACT by their church leaders as children. It’s not a myth….

      Report Post »  
    • joel228
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 7:41pm

      I’ve been in the church since birth and seeing “white horse prophesy” here did not even ring a bell for me. Here’s a good source about that as well as LDS views on the constitution.
      http://www.fairlds.org/pubs/whitehorse.pdf

      Report Post » joel228  
    • HankScram
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 11:54pm

      @ Joel228,

      You just told a little white lie.

      Report Post »  
    • joel228
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 1:06am

      So HankScram tell me, where did you learn to read minds? It‘s all the trickier to discern one’s thoughts by reading something they wrote.

      Report Post » joel228  
    • katiefrankie
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 1:16am

      Bwa ha ha ha! I’m sorry, but it just tickles me every time a person who is not a member of the LDS Church tells me what I believe and what my church teaches as doctrine. I may tell them in all honesty that I neither believe it nor have I ever been taught to accept it as doctrine, but they will never accept my answer. Their sister‘s friend’s cousin’s next-door-neighbor’s preacher TOLD them what we believe, and gosh darn it, that’s the TRUTH.

      Report Post » katiefrankie  
  • awiderview
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:00pm

    So Glenn won’t be running any time soon?

    Report Post »  
    • TelepromoterNChief
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:45pm

      Thanks to Obama, Glenn will not be able to run any time soon.

      In the words of The Great Glenn Beck; “there are not enough bombs.”

      Report Post »  
    • Jabber
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:51pm

      Glenn Beck, as far as I know, is not an LDS Church leader of the status mentioned in the memo. People might view him as “a leader” and he is LDS, but he is not an LDS CHURCH leader.

      Report Post »  
    • Ginny
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 11:26pm

      I am a huge Glenn Beck supporter….just to be up front!! Someone on The Blaze suggested that it was his fault that he and his family got treated so poorly in New York, that he should not have gone there. How sad for the people of New York to not stand up for the individual freedoms. Everyone has the right (so far anyway) to go where they choose as long as they do not infringe upon another’s rights. He and his family have been very strong and I think they are an example to us that we must emulate and be not afraid to stand for what we believe. Like he said, let us lock arms and stand together for all that is good and virtuous and love all of our neighbors and be willing to help even those that disagree with us. We need to reach out and be sure our actions reflect what we believe in.

      Report Post » Ginny  
  • TelepromoterNChief
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:56pm

    As an active Mormon myself, I will not vote for either of these two jack holes.
    Religion will not be the only deciding factor in who I elect.
    My hell, look at Harry Reidtard?!!
    He’s a Mormon too.
    All three of these shmucks give Mormons a bad name.

    Report Post »  
    • rickbob
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:21pm

      You took the steam out of my comments. All I can say is AMEN. Not one of them reflects well the teachings of the Gospel. . .

      Report Post » rickbob  
    • TelepromoterNChief
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:40pm

      There is plenty that can be done on a day in day out basis, though it may not jive with your core values or committed beliefs, can still let them run their course.
      However, if you are a vessel on atomic rocket fuel high on Red Bull to faciliate iniquity and the knowing destruction of society, there is a problem.

      Report Post »  
    • dat bee
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 12:18am

      I am also an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, I also feel Harry Reid is an embarrassment to all members of our Church. He certainly does not uphold our standards as devoted Christians. I will not vote for Huntsman nor Romney, they have not been worthy of my trust. I stand behind Herman Cain right now. We are free to make our own choices, and not be acted upon.

      Report Post »  
  • It is their RIGHT, it is their DUTY...
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:54pm

    A good reminder for the upcoming election, I’m sure there are people out there who would jump at the chance to bring the church down. Members of this church are usually conservative and Love their country. I’m not really sure what happened with Harry Reed!!?!? He’s a confusing fellow. Everything he stands for is actually against church teachings, so , not sure what happened there, its one thing to say your a member, and completely another thing to live it !

    Report Post » It is their RIGHT, it is their DUTY...  
    • TelepromoterNChief
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:59pm

      I’m with you on that saggy bag of flesh known as Reed.
      He goes against the Church.
      His membership should be called into question.

      Yes you trolls, I’m judging. As are you.

      Report Post »  
    • woemcat
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:00pm

      Harry Reid is just like the Democratic politicians who are Catholic. Those two things generally don’t jive with each other due to their conflicts, especially in the social arenas (like abortion and homosexuality). Pelosi is case in point.

      Report Post » woemcat  
    • Ginny
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 11:15pm

      Harry Reid will be judged, but let it not be by us, except by voting. This letter from the Church always comes around the elections. However, when special interest groups attempt to change our laws that go against what we believe (gay marriage, abortions where the woman’s life is not threatened, etc) then we as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we stand up and be counted in what we believe in. However, the Presidential election does not reach that magnitude. We are encouraged, not told, to study, pray, get involved and VOTE for the person we feel will best fulfill the position and exemplify our standards. The members of the Church will never be voting as a block of people. Neither Mitt Romney nor John Huntsman can count on that. I have not decided who I will vote for but I am listening to everything I can about them and sorting out the lies being told about them and the stupidity of the media for asking trivial questions and pouncing on two or three words they can make headlines with such as “The Mormon Church BANS…….how unfair and a clear untruth. It would be so nice if we could actually believe what journalists wrote!!

      Report Post » Ginny  
  • Jennine
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:52pm

    About the title– Mormon leaders do vote. They just don’t participate in political campaigns. ‘Banned’ is a bit of a strong term.

    Report Post »  
  • Jennine
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:49pm

    Kind of a misleading title: “Mormons BANNED from politics.” The worldwide leadership doesn’t want local leaders participating in political campaigns or publicly displaying a political preference. Obviously, we don’t want Mormon congregations getting the idea that the Church wants them to vote a certain way. Political neutrality is important in the LDS Church– we each vote our respective conscience and allow our neighbors, Mormon or otherwise, the same liberty. But yes, we vote. Yes, the membership at large can participate in any civic activity they want, including campaigns– just not people in leadership positions that have influence over others. And NO– the fact that a person is Mormon does NOT mean they’ll be voting for a Mormon. I’m looking for the best candidate, Mormon or not.

    Report Post »  
    • hoofershouse
      Posted on July 2, 2011 at 1:49am

      Amen to that Jennine. I have five brothers. All members of the church. I’m leaning towards Romney, one of my brothers realy likes Cain. My three other brothers… Who knows. Its all about freedom to vote for who we want to vote for and still be part of the same church, with out being judged.

      Report Post »  
  • r*luv
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:42pm

    As members of the Church, we are always encouraged to research on our own and do our civic duty and vote for the candidate that we feel best fits the needs of the position for which they are running.

    Report Post » r*luv  
  • nomercy63
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:32pm

    Churches should always be banned from politics ALL OF THEM!!!!!!

    Report Post »  
    • booger71
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:09pm

      I say take away tax exempt status for all churches and all tax exempt special interest groups. Our founding fathers thought the only special interest group worth fighting for was the rights, property, and liberty of the INDIVIDUAL

      Report Post » booger71  
    • nomercy63
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:36pm

      You can’t look in any direction without seeing a church and a lot of these churches sit on very valuable land, they pay no taxes and then decide they want to engage in local and federal politics! I knew one man that was becoming a preacher he was not the type of person you would want as a preacher. I asked him why he was becoming a preacher? He told me it was a great money business!

      Report Post »  
    • JGraham III
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 11:13pm

      The 501-C3 tax exemption was first greatly promoted by Lyndon Baines Johnson in the early 1950′s when he was Senate Majority leader. It was designed to muzzle the pulpits of America by “jeopardizing” tax exemption for any preachers or church organizations who spoke out against the progressive adjenda and has done a great job of doing that since its inception. Churches have always had a tax exempt status in this country which goes back to the very old idea of ‘sanctuary’ that I believe began with the Roman Catholic Church. I do not remember the IRS tax form number used prior for the non profit exempt used today, but I believe it is 508-A. I have challenged our pastor to look into this, but because fear of the IRS is such an effective tool, many churches won’t tell the government to shove the 501-C3 where the sun don’t shine. I believe the government will someday soon move against the extensive property ownership that many denominations enjoy because of its insatiable lust for money and property. It won’t be “fair” we will be told…Churches are sitting ducks for the communist/progressive/socialist plan for them. All one has to do is look at what churches were “allowed” to exist in Russia, Romania, etc etc, or the ‘state approved’ churches in China. Only those who kiss behinds and/or sell out other churches will be allowed to operate. Of course the name of Jesus Christ will never be allowed…

      Report Post »  
  • Dry_Drunk_GA
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:31pm

    Ok now- will the Christains have to do the same thing! What about Pope of the Catloics? and the Muslims? So Only the athiestic preachers can vote?

    Report Post » MONICNE  
    • zeban48
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:44pm

      It does not say they can not vote but that they can not use church facilities or their titles in the church or do any type of fundraising to support a political candidate no matter what their rellgion.

      Report Post » zeban48  
    • Homo_Erectus
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:22pm

      EVERYONE can vote in the USA.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
  • emilieclark
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:31pm

    This is only including full time callings such as general authorities, general auxiliary leaders, mission presidents and temple presidents, they wouldn’t have time to become involved in political campaigns anyways… which is only a fraction of a percent of the church population… it sound as though politics aren‘t important to Mormon’s but as one, it is quite the opposite, but we are free to study it out for ourselves.

    Report Post »  
    • mlebates
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:10pm

      AMEN! Condem our faith if you all want, but like it’s been said, apostles, auxilliary leaders, temple presidents, mission presidents etc just don’t have the time available to devote to such causes, and because of their status’ in the church it would “appear” as though it was the church backing said politician. I am a mormon too, but if I feel Romney or Huntsman can‘t do the job correctly than I won’t be voting for them. AND like it’s been said before, we have the freedom to study what we want, and vote for what we want. I’m a proud member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and I’m so grateful for the freedoms this country has to offer.

      Report Post »  
  • Ronko
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:29pm

    I have no problem with the church taking a neutral position, heck I wished all religious groups did that and focus on their faith instead of politics.

    Report Post »  
    • True American66
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:42pm

      Here, Here!!!…Why would anyone who is right with their God want their church to tell them who to vote for anyway?

      Report Post »  
    • code green
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:44pm

      Amen ! Can I say that ?

      Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:51pm

      I‘m willing to bet God doesn’t want anyone voting for a party that makes legal abortion one of it’s founding principles. How can any Christian church support the Democrats because of that? The real oxymoron is asp called “devout” Christian like Nancy Pelosi who wants late term abotions legalized nationaly.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:07pm

      How can a church, in good concience, have a neutral position on abortion and the party that supports it? I know they do it but, it’s wrong.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:30pm

      Gonzo
      That’s why it blows my mind why any Christian would vote for a Democrat who supports abortion.
      Around here, they mostly seem to be Catholics.

      Report Post » Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • SparkyVA
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 8:30pm

      Well the LDS church does take a position on abortion and will take to the streets to fight it. Reed, who has nominally supported lots of abortion bills always votes against abortion bills because if he did 1) he would lose all the LDS votes, and he would be disciplined by the Church as a member – probably excommunicated. Romney as a former Bishop in the church, would have had to council members against abortion. We have one exception and that is to save the life of the mother. Anything else is doctrinally a serious sin. I think we are even tougher than the Catholic Church on abortion. Disclaimer: I am only a regular member and not an authority on this subject. I do not speak for the Church.

      Report Post »  
    • RAS
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 1:00am

      Unfortunately Sparky, according to the LDS Church’s stated position on their web site, they will not take to the streets to fight abortion, nor will they do anything to put an end to it. Specifically they say, “The Church has not favored or opposed legislative proposals or public demonstrations concerning abortion.”

      Other than that, it appears to me their overall position on abortion is pretty “soft” and most often leans toward considering factors other than preserving the life of the baby. They essentially say that the church “counsels its members not to submit to, perform, encourage, pay for, or arrange for such abortions.” They also name exceptions when abortion is allowed, but in the interest of brevity, I suggest you read the LDS statement yourself at: http://newsroom.lds.org/official-statement/abortion

      Report Post »  
  • mossbrain
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:25pm

    Churches are tax exempt, if they start supporting political candidates they may lose that status.

    Report Post » mossbrain  
    • Want our country back
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:28pm

      Please tell all the liberals that too….

      Report Post » Want our country back  
    • Revere1
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:31pm

      Which candidate will win the Mormon vote, Romney or Huntsman? Or maybe Bachmann? http://www.elephantwatcher.com/2011/06/who-is-jon-huntsman-another-candidate.html

      Report Post » Revere1  
    • windswalker
      Posted on July 1, 2011 at 2:29am

      I’ll take Bachmann! And I’m a Mormon! Oh and one more thing Mormon and Liberal I believe to be a contradiction of terms.

      Report Post » windswalker  
    • windswalker
      Posted on July 1, 2011 at 2:43am

      Can we all just be true Christians?

      Report Post » windswalker  
    • EnoughBS
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:32pm

      I’ll vote for anyone regardless of religion, as long as they have allegiance to this nation, and get the job done to fix our debt problem/out of control spending.

      Report Post » EnoughBS  
    • the hawk
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:40pm

      How about those Bengals ? 15-1 next year?

      Report Post »  
    • Truth Wins Every Time
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:41pm

      My question on Huntsman is this……………Huntsman was elected Governor of Utah in 2004 and won re-election in 2008 with nearly 78% of the vote. On August 11, 2009, he resigned as governor to accept appointment by Barack Obama as the United States Ambassador to China.

      So he QUIT! Why are the Dems wanting us to like him, he is a quitter. Remember what they all said about Palin? Have we heard Dem or Repub who likes this guy call him a quitter?

      Report Post »  
    • sWampy
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:44pm

      Churches religious views could trump their tax exempt status. The way they have rolled on abortion, homosexuality, welfare, drugs, gambling, etc so they wouldn’t loose their tax break is sickening, and makes you really question their faith.

      Report Post »  
    • Dry_Drunk_GA
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:45pm

      Every Cult needs to follow the law – Just like Christians will be sure to do anyway without being told to or not to and given orders from above. We get Our orders from Jesus the Loerd God.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • Dry_Drunk_GA
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 3:46pm

      Why are they Mormons if they are Saints? It seems like a tricky situation.

      Report Post » MONICNE  
    • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:01pm

      @the hawk
      That’s really up to whether Carson comes back or not.

      Report Post » Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • booger71
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:05pm

      Yeah tell that to the Tax exempt Media Matters

      Report Post » booger71  
    • fastfacts
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:07pm

      GOOD FOR THEM, THIS IS THE LAW FOR TAX EXEMPTION:

      Why doesn’t Sharpton follow these same laws?: http://tiny.cc/6cava
      Or how about when he attacks GOP candidates: http://tiny.cc/3b5v3

      Report Post »  
    • MontyRay
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:09pm

      I support the Church’s policy on this. My questions are these:

      1. Anyone who does their homework would know that these letters come out every campaign season regardless if there are Mormon candidates or not. How could an article even begin to imply that it is for any other purpose?
      2. If the Mormons did anything other than what they are doing in terms of policy, they would face immediate tax-exemption consequences. So, why is it possible for Dem candidates to go into the projects and campaign from the pulpit without recourse? Why is it possible for the pastors of the same church to tell their congregation how to vote?

      Report Post »  
    • CatB
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:10pm

      Wow .. MOSSBRAIN >> you shoud go and tell that to the Democrats and b l a c k churches .. they didn’t seem to get the memo.

      TEA!

      Report Post »  
    • mils
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:11pm

      all i can say is….they will find a way…they don’t need direct money, time…tell the bishops what they want done and it will happen…Romney needed help with the olympics…it was mentioned in sunday meetings, monday, the p hones crashed, there were thousands upon thousands volunteering…the Mormon church picks and elects the candidates in this state, period. During the olympics, there were fewfewfew, if any…nonMormons accepted as volunteers…it did not good to complain.

      Disagree all you want to folks…church does/does not want something…it happens.. It is no different than any other church. UTAH is the strong hold..like vatican city…

      I think mormons are misunderstood public ally in other states, and the religion is painted with a blacker paint than is actually so… As said it’s no different. I’m not mormon, but if a candidate were good and mormon i’d vote for them….Huntsman and Romney, we will not vote for. Question here is …which one does the church want supported>

      Report Post »  
    • banjarmon
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:12pm

      Take government out of Religion, but leave Religion in government!!

      Report Post » banjarmon  
    • joodgy-woodgy puddin -n- pie
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:13pm

      @Dry_Drunk_GA
      Your post doesn’t make sense. Do you consider Mormons a cult? Not Christian? Well, being a “Mormon” myself I would say it depends on your definition of Christian. If your definition of Christian is a person who believes that the ONE AND ONLY way to be saved is by and through the Savior Jesus Christ then I am a Christian. If your definition of Christian is someone who believes in an unknowable God (Niceen Creed) then I would not be a Christian.
      John 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
      Sounds to me like I am supposed to get to know, have a personal relationship with, God and His Son, Jesus Christ.

      Report Post »  
    • Jenny Lind
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:31pm

      Maybe neither will “win” the Mormon Vote. We all want the best person for the job, I ‘m LDS, and I have a very short list, neither are on it at the moment. That could change with the primaries, I am not against either one, just like some better than others. I want a little direction fron higher up, I want to believe in the person I vote for, that they will stop the slide, and put this great country back on track by nullifiying the executive orders that are ruining us. It will not have a thing to do with religion. God raises up the leaders we deserve and pray for, especially now that we have had our hearts and minds woken up.

      Report Post »  
    • emilieclark
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:35pm

      This “ban” is only from indorsing political candidates, not from voting or having a opionion

      Report Post »  
    • Jabber
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:43pm

      Ditto that Jenny Lind. Neither one of them has made my short list either.

      Report Post »  
    • Heitah
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:19pm

      I‘m Mormon and I’m most likely to vote for Bachman, secondly Romney. But HECK no on Huntsman.

      Report Post » Heitah  
    • SpunkyGal
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:31pm

      Religion does not play into who I’ll vote for, and it shouldn’t for anyone else. I look to see if someone is leading a moral life and has values and principles consistent with being a Christian. I too am Mormon and am not politically behind either LDS candidate at the moment. I haven’t heard enough about anyones campaign to politically support any candidate. If anyone won’t vote for Romney or Huntsman because of their religion then they are fools. If anyone votes for them because of their religion, they are also fools.

      The church has always preached to it’s members to support their country, to vote, and to get involved. They have also always remained neutral about how people should vote. That’s how we ended up with Harry Reid and Jason Chaffetz – same religion, different results.

      Report Post »  
    • poverty.sucks
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:35pm

      Advising Mormons to steer clear from politics is like suggesting flies to stay clear from a pile a crap. The Mormons control people who can’t think for themselves.

      Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • SpunkyGal
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:45pm

      poverty.sucks
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:35pm
      Advising Mormons to steer clear from politics is like suggesting flies to stay clear from a pile a crap. The Mormons control people who can’t think for themselves.

      What are you talking about? First of all, the leaders never stated that the general population of the church should stay away from politics, just the leaders shouldn’t publically endorse anyone. It’s the same concept as the military. Military leaders are supposed to vote, but they cannot publically endorse candidates. It’s a good rule of thumb for any type of leader. Get your facts straight. And provide facts that support that Mormons can’t think for themselves. You’ve made two false, sweeping statements that have just tainted your credibility.

      Report Post »  
    • poverty.sucks
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:47pm

      @SPUNKYGAL – do really care what you have to say

      Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • SpunkyGal
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 6:06pm

      @Poverty Sucks
      Luv, you are welcome to any opinion you want. If ignorance is your style, I wouldn’t want to ruin that with truth and all that crap. Truth might just cramp your style. You just go right ahead and keep on hating without any foundation.

      Report Post »  
    • poverty.sucks
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 7:02pm

      For leaders of the cult comes out and tells it’s followers on how to act, strongly suggests there’s a problem.

      Report Post » poverty.sucks  
    • bombshelterbob
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 7:38pm

      As a Latter-Day Saint I can attest that these letters are issued by the church regularly, and I am in total agreement with the spirit and letter of them. I am especially in agreement with the leaders of the church in this election cycle. Huntsman and Romney are both Rino Progressives, neither deserves the nomination–unless the country really and truly wants a lot more of the last three years!

      Bachmann 2012

      Report Post » bombshelterbob  
    • Welcome Black Carter
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 7:49pm

      Churches do not make a profit. That is why they are “non-profit” . Ever been to a black service… they have been telling the patrons who to vote for since they had the right to vote.

      Report Post » Welcome Black Carter  
    • ramburner
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 7:54pm

      “The Church” needs to start proclaiming God’s Word to its people, or God will allow the stones to cry out and proclaim it! It is NOT the “churches” responsibility to be pro any candidate. They need to stay out of politics, yet be pro-government in the sense that they teach that there is nothing wrong with any person who wants a political career. Too many Christians fear becoming part of the establishment, realizing how corrupt it is. However, unless real Christians ARE a part of the government, then we the people will have government in our lives; this is NOT what the founders envisioned for anyone. We MUST have limited government based on Christian principles. If Christians avoid being involved, who will deliver those principles when they are at issue?

      Report Post »  
    • SYSYA
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 8:00pm

      As a lifelong and extremely proud Utahn, I am very happy to see someone from Utah run for POTUS. I will be voting to whomever the Republican nominee is, but I hope it is NOT Huntsman.
      He is a nice guy, and he did a good job as Governor. He talks a good conservative talk, but he likes to compromise with Democrats way to much. Right now we need a strong conservative leader that will hold his ground.

      Report Post »  
    • SparkyVA
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 8:13pm

      Mormons have hit as high as 60% in the conservative column in past polls. Neither Huntsman or Romney have strong conservative credentials. While I am sure that many will vote for “one of us” just like the black vote went overwhelmingly for Obama, there are a lot of us who want someone more like Bachman/Cain/Palin. There will be no overwhelming support for either candidate based on having the same religion. Among those who don’t follow politics, there may be some following. But I doubt that Beck himself will vote (in the primaries) for either candidate.

      Report Post »  
    • jzs
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 9:45pm

      MontyRay, do you have an example of a Democrat “speaking from the pulpit?” Seriously. Can you give me a single example? One?

      On the the other hand, have you heard about Evangelical Christians?

      Report Post » jzs  
    • farfel
      Posted on June 29, 2011 at 10:45pm

      Hhhmmmm—how come all the Black Churches have candidates preaching from the pulpits and they never lose their tax exemptions??????

      Report Post »  
    • jcannon98188
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 6:19am

      What does this have to do with Taxes?

      The Church takes political stances all the time, but they do not officially support candidates. They only support matters that they believe are important.

      Report Post »  
    • SuttonShimai
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 8:31am

      Big deal. This letter gets read over the pulpit every time there is a campaign year. Church members are encouraged to get involved in the political process, but anyone “officially” representing the church at any leadership level is not allowed to endorse any candidate. Church members are supposed to do their own research and make up their own mind, but nobody is perfect and there are LDS church members who are “sheep” and just go along, just like you would find in any other religion. When it comes to voting for someone, I could care less about their religion. Are they a Constitutionalist or not? That’s the key.

      Report Post »  
    • Oldphoto678
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 8:52am

      @Truth Wins Every Time
      Apples to oranges. Huntsman resigned as governor to accept an appointment to higher service to his country. Palin resigned because she couldn’t take the heat. Put all the lipstick you want on Palin, she still won’t ever be President. She’s a quitter!

      Report Post »  
    • SpunkyGal
      Posted on June 30, 2011 at 10:53am

      @Poverty Sucks
      Oh my! You really missed the point of the article. The church (not a cult luv) will NOT tell anyone how to act politically. Facts are just such a bother for you and your opinions. If you want to hate Mormons or Jews or Baptists or Catholics or anyone else, go ahead and hate. But don’t make up false facts to support your feelings.

      Report Post »  
  • Baikonur
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:01pm

    @shanemmcc
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 4:45pm
    ‘I’m a Mormon and I will not be voting for Romney or Huntsman…’
    ***************
    I am not a Mormon, and I switched parties during the last election. But if you don’t vote for Romney, the Republican Party will lose the next election. He is the only non-crazy/monster Republican candidate. Everyone sees Romney and understands him, based on his proven record, as intelligent, honorable, a good business man, a good governor, and someone who put in place a model for this Nation’s healthcare.

    Report Post » Baikonur  
  • TelepromoterNChief
    Posted on June 29, 2011 at 5:05pm

    I‘m voting anything that doesn’t have a “D” next to it.
    Not impressed with the Republicans, but I sure as hell not going to give a single democrud the time of day.

    Report Post »  
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