Church's stance on Politics

Issues Resources
Political Neutrality

Question:
Does the Church support or endorse political parties or candidates?

Answer:
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from time to time issues letters to its members encouraging them to participate in the political process. The letters also emphasize the Church’s institutional neutrality in political party matters.

The following letter was issued by the First Presidency on 21 July 2004 to Church leaders in the United States:

"In this election year, we urge Church members to register to vote, to study the issues and candidates carefully and prayerfully, and then vote for those they believe will most nearly carry out their ideas of good government. Latter-day Saints are under special obligation to seek out and then uphold leaders who will act with integrity and are ‘wise,’ ‘good,’ and ‘honest,’ (see Doctrine and Covenants 98:10).

"While affirming its constitutional right of expression on political and social issues, the Church reaffirms its long-standing policy of neutrality regarding political parties, political platforms, and candidates for political office. Church facilities, directories, and mailing lists are not to be used for political purposes.

"Candidates for public office should not imply that their candidacy is endorsed by the Church or its leaders, and Church leaders and members should avoid statements or conduct that may be interpreted as Church endorsement of any political party, political platform, or candidate. In addition, members who hold public office should not give the impression they represent the Church as they work for solutions to social problems."