re: #84 Rightwingconspirator

Well this is a big topic, I also admit very mixed feelings. I’m stuck between another first amendment issue-free speech and the tax status. I get uncomfortable both ways-Mega churches endorsing candidates, and a pastor having his right to speak freely at the pulpit impaired.

I do not think school vouchers should be a problem to give parents more power to get their kids better education. But the separation issue is used very often to thwart voucher efforts.

It’s a tough issue. Perhaps the IRS should separate individual speech (a preacher giving a sermon that endorses or attacks a candidate) from actual campaigning - for instance, allowing church property to be used for a rally or a campaign headquarters, or political donations.

Even charities are entitled to look after their own interests in a reasonable manner, and if a particular candidate threatens those interests, the threat of economic loss shouldn’t be used to silence a charity.