Does ADL prefer that candidates not be religious?
No. ADL expects that many candidates for public office will be religious and ADL anticipates that these candidates will, from time to time, express their religious beliefs – and how these beliefs shape their worldview and policy positions. Candidates should not be discouraged from seeking office because their convictions and positions are influenced by their religious faith, nor should they be expected to hide their religious views from the electorate. Freedom of religion is one of our nation’s most cherished liberties, and safeguarding that freedom is one of ADL’s highest priorities. ADL supports and respects the right of any candidate for public office to believe and to worship as he or she chooses. Candidates should feel comfortable explaining their religious convictions to voters and commenting about their own religious perspectives. At the same time, however, we believe there is a point at which the emphasis on religion in a political campaign becomes inappropriate and even unsett
