In a surprising turn, prominent Southern Baptist pastor Dwight McKissic of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas, has publicly distanced himself from Donald Trump, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris instead. In a recent NBC News column, McKissic emphasized that while he maintains conservative beliefs on issues such as abortion and traditional marriage, his support for Harris is rooted in character and competence rather than mere adherence to specific social policies.
Historically, evangelical Christians have been a vital voting bloc for the Republican Party, largely due to their alignment with cultural issues such as opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. However, the relationship between Trump and evangelical voters has been complicated by his controversial past and shifting stances on social issues. High voter turnout from white evangelicals is critical for Trump’s electoral success, yet McKissic argues that many in the evangelical community have compromised their values by supporting Trump, despite his alleged moral failings.
McKissic has pointedly criticized Trump for his extramarital affairs and numerous legal challenges, including a recent civil case where Trump was found liable for sexual battery against journalist E. Jean Carroll. This moral inconsistency stands in stark contrast to the evangelical community’s previous condemnation of former President Bill Clinton for similar issues.
Reflecting on the changes within the Republican Party, McKissic lamented that the GOP he once cherished no longer aligns with its foundational principles. He noted, “The party I knew and loved would have never chosen as its nominee someone with such a questionable character.” His frustrations extend to the broader evangelical leadership, which he believes has overlooked Trump’s shortcomings while remaining critical of past Democratic leaders.
Despite his endorsement of Harris, McKissic reaffirmed his commitment to traditional values, stating that for over 40 years, he has supported candidates who reflect his beliefs about marriage and the sanctity of life. He expressed admiration for Harris’s personal faith and integrity, suggesting that, based solely on her professional qualifications, he would consider hiring her without hesitation.
This endorsement marks a significant departure from the conventional Republican narrative, urging fellow evangelicals to reconsider their alignment with a party that, in McKissic’s view, has strayed from its moral compass. As he stated, “A tree that doesn’t bear good fruit should be cut down,” challenging voters to reflect on what their party truly represents.
As the election approaches, McKissic’s voice serves as a reminder that integrity and character should remain at the forefront of political decision-making, particularly for those who claim to uphold Christian values. The choice voters make will not only impact the future of the Republican Party but also the broader moral direction of the nation.