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 celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.