Pastors Free to Address Candidates from the Pulpit
This week, the Internal Revenue Service issued a key clarification in a recent court filing regarding pastors and political engagement. In short, the IRS affirmed that a pastor or church speaking to its members about political issues—even candidates—does not violate the tax code or jeopardize the church’s tax-exempt status.
That’s significant—especially for pastors here in New Jersey who’ve expressed concern about overstepping boundaries. Many pastors felt constrained in expressing scriptural views due to the widespread misinterpretation of the Johnson Amendment. For decades, it cast a chilling effect on some pastors simply for preaching biblical truth or guiding their congregations on civic responsibility. Now, I believe New Jersey pastors will be increasingly emboldened to encourage their members to engage as informed citizens shaped by a biblical worldview—without fear of their churches being targeted by an overreaching IRS.
This decision couldn’t come at a more pivotal moment for New Jersey. Although the gubernatorial election is still months away, the stakes for our state—and for people of faith—have never been higher. Electing the right governor is essential to ensuring future policies reflect our shared values as they will directly impact our families—from education to protecting the pregnancy resource centers and preserving parental rights.
It’s never too early to begin equipping voters with clear, fact-based information—especially given the stark contrast between Jack Ciattarelli and Mikie Sherrill. Our General Election Voter Guide is now live on our website. We encourage you to share it with friends, family, and your church community.
Pastors are welcome to use this guide as a reference while expositing God’s Word on the role of government, the Genesis creation mandate, the responsibilities of parents, the sanctity of life, binary gender, and God’s design for family. These truths remain foundational as we seek to apply a biblical worldview to every area of civic life.
Remember, when you vote for governor, you’re not simply choosing one individual—you’re choosing the leadership of an entire administration. That governor will appoint heads of state agencies who craft regulations, shape enforcement, and interpret the law with wide-reaching consequences. Sitting out this election—or casting a symbolic protest vote—doesn’t send a message to the establishment. It places families and pregnancy centers at the mercy of those who would weaponize state power against them.
