Washington, D.C. – Interfaith Alliance President Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy released the following statement today in response to Texas Governor and Republican Presidential candidate Rick Perry’s new television ad airing in Iowa, entitled “Faith”:

After seeing Governor Rick Perry’s recent TV advertisement, I am struck by the feeling that he seems to be confused about the office for which he is campaigning. This is a race for commander-in-chief, not pastor-in-chief. There are important questions for voters to ask about how a candidate will balance the principles of his or her faith and the obligation to defend the Constitution, particularly if the two come into conflict. But Governor Perry goes too far in implying that it is his faith, rather than his policy views, that qualifies him for office.

I would urge Governor Perry and all candidates for political office to celebrate our religious diversity and to avoid the misuse of faith for political gain on the campaign trail. 

 


Interfaith Alliance is a network of people of diverse faiths and beliefs from across the country working together to build a resilient democracy and fulfill America’s promise of religious freedom and civil rights not just for some, but for all. We mobilize powerful coalitions to challenge Christian nationalism and religious extremism, while fostering a better understanding of the healthy boundaries between religion and government. We advocate at all levels of government for an equitable and just America where the freedoms of belief and religious practice are protected, and where all persons are treated with dignity and have the opportunity to thrive. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.