The LDS Church’s Relationship with Trump: Official Views vs. Personal Opinions
The relationship between the LDS (Mormon) Church and former President Donald Trump has been a subject of considerable interest and discussion. While some argue that the Church has officially opposed Trump, others point out that such opposition is unofficial. Here, we delve into the specifics, drawing from official statements and the actions of key figures within the Church.
Official Statements and Senior Leadership
It's important to note that the LDS Church does not issue official statements on political figures like Donald Trump. President Ezra Taft Benson once stated that the Church does not have “any official position on political parties or candidates for political office.” Senior leadership, including the First Presidency, typically avoids making explicit endorsements. The Church is more likely to address specific issues related to morality.
Addressing Moral Issues
When moral issues are at stake, the Church does speak out. For instance, issues such as abortion, LGBTQ rights, and gun control have been subjects of official comment from the Church. However, these statements are not made to support or oppose specific candidates; rather, they provide guidance based on Church teachings.
Mitt Romney and His Position
Mitt Romney, a former member of the Church in good standing, is a notable example. While he has expressed personal opinions and supported political candidates, it is crucial to understand that he does not speak for the Church. As an elected politician, Romney is free to endorse or oppose whoever he chooses. This separation of Church and personal opinion is a key point of distinction.
The LDS Church and Specific Statements
The LDS Church rarely takes an official stance on political issues. The focus is not on endorsing or opposing candidates, but rather on addressing issues from a moral standpoint. For example, the Church has spoken out against practices it views as immoral, such as the use of tithing funds for non-moral purposes. However, these statements are not made to explicitly support or oppose any political candidate.
Current President Cook and His Views
Speaking to the recent comments made by Dallin H. Oaks, who serves as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, there has been a focus on engaging with political figures. President Dallin H. Oaks has
“highlighted the positive aspects of interactions with people of different political backgrounds and ideologies.” He sees value in engaging with leaders, including President Trump, recognizing the importance of public recognition and promoting business savviness.
The LDS Church’s approach to interaction with politicians is often seen as pragmatic rather than ideological. The emphasis is on the utility of such interactions for the Church and the potential benefits to the broader community. This does not imply official endorsement but rather an acknowledgment of the strengths and experiences of individuals within the Church.
Marc E. Peterson, a member of the First Presidency, has been noted for his extensive business experience and the positive impact of corporate leadership on the Church’s success as a nonprofit organization. The Church values such expertise, recognizing the importance of sound business practices in managing tithing and other resources.
Criticism and Public Scrutiny
Critics and members of the public often scrutinize the Church’s spending and operations. This scrutiny can beboth positive and negative. For example, those concerned about how tithing funds are used have legitimate questions that deserve transparent answers. The Church has provided explanations, acknowledging the need for accountability and transparency.
Trump's Business Acumen
Similarly, critics of President Trump often focus on his economic policies and business decisions. However, it’s important to view these through a broader lens. While liberal women and other critics may oppose Trump, they must also consider the tangible benefits of his policies, such as economic prosperity and welfare programs for the poor.
The legitimacy of criticism and the need for transparent explanations from both the Church and political figures like Trump are crucial. Whether one supports or opposes these figures, it’s important to evaluate their actions and policies based on a comprehensive understanding of their impacts.
Conclusion
In summary, the LDS Church does not officially oppose Donald Trump or any other political figure. Instead, the Church focuses on addressing moral issues and engaging with leaders like Trump in a pragmatic manner. The separation between Church leadership and personal opinions is essential to understanding the Church's stance on political matters. This approach invites ongoing dialogue and scrutiny, ensuring that the Church remains transparent and accountable to its members and the broader society.