Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid has energized a new electorate, including unexpected voices from faith-based sectors. Harris, along with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, plans to secure support across various voting blocs at the Democratic National Convention in August. The shift of some voters seeking an alternative to former President Donald Trump has led them to voice support for Harris, even from those who did not support President Joe Biden previously.
The Harris campaign is generating enthusiasm and participation in faith-based voter engagement initiatives, garnering support from Black Protestants, white nonevangelical Protestants, and young Catholics. Groups like Evangelicals for Harris have emerged to offer a counter-narrative to the overwhelming evangelical support for Trump. However, this has also fueled criticism among the Christian right, led by individuals like Texas pastor Dwight McKissic, who is supporting Harris despite disagreements on issues like abortion.
The unexpected support for Harris has caused controversy, particularly after New York Times opinion columnist David French declared his intention to vote for Harris to save conservatism from itself. French, a traditionalist with conservative views, believes Trump poses a greater threat to his religious worldview and values than Harris. Critics argue that supporting Harris is a betrayal of Christian values, while others see it as a principled stand against the Trump administration’s policies and actions. French’s stance has ignited a debate within evangelical circles about compromising values for political gain.
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