What the Johnson Amendment really prevents churches from doing
There are constitutional arguments against allowing nonprofits—including congregations—to endorse political candidates. But the religious one is stronger.
The video below is worth watching, particularly in our current context. It was produced, distributed, and played in conservative evangelical churches all around the country on the Sunday before the election. Mike Pence, governor and vice-presidential candidate, right there up on the sanctuary screen, talking about how good Christians should feel called to vote for Donald Trump. Why? Because he's 1) pro-life and 2) going to press for the repeal of the Johnson Amendment, which forbids congregations from endorsing candidates or parties.
Of course, the video itself seems a pretty flagrant violation of said rule. I mean, "Mike Pence and Donald Trump: Men of God?" Pence, I can see. He's right out of central casting. But Donald? Lord have mercy. Were there alternatives? Did, after showing this, those pastor show their congregations "Bernie Sanders: The Lord Descends from Heaven As a Sparrow" and "Gary Johnson: Jesus Totally Gets High With Him?" I think not.
