There is no shortage of major issues at home and abroad impacting voters’ decisions this midterm season – but the role of religion should not be overlooked. With democracy and true religious freedom on the ballot, faithful Americans have an essential role to play to help protect our core values. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, we’ll discuss some of the faith voices shaping this year’s electoral outlook.
One crucial voting bloc in recent years has been white Evangelicals, 80% of whom voted for President Trump in 2016. Energized by the culture wars waged by the former President and his allies, this group is poised to be a major force once again this year. Dr. Brian Kaylor, editor-in-chief at Word & Way, will join Rabbi Jack Moline, filling in for State of Belief host Rev. Welton Gaddy, to discuss his recent column on The Evangelical Primary.
In times of turmoil and uncertainty, hopeful voices can remind us that our nation can still be an inspiring force. Among our nation’s finest moments have been when we welcome those fleeing persecution elsewhere with open arms. Edafe Okporo, an ordained pastor and LGBTQ+ Christian refugee from Nigeria who has built a thriving consulting firm here while advocating for other refugees, will sit down with Jack to discuss his new book, Asylum: A Memoir and Manifesto.
Religious freedom is one of our nation’s bedrock values. But in state after state, we’re seeing candidates turning to Christian nationalism to attract voters and consolidate power. Interfaith Alliance advocates tirelessly at the federal level to push back on those who seek to impose their own beliefs on all – but our affiliates are the first line of defense. Ross Keys, leader of the nascent Interfaith Alliance of North Dakota, will join Jack to discuss their mission to defend true religious freedom in our communities.
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