First Presidency reaffirms political neutrality
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As election day approaches in the United States, the First Presidency has reaffirmed the Church's long-standing policy of political neutrality. The following letter was distributed to Church leaders throughout the United States and read to members in their local Sunday worship services:
In this election year, we reaffirm the Church's long-standing policy of political neutrality. The Church does not endorse any political party, political platform or candidate. 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 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.
We urge Church members 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).
As personal circumstances allow, we encourage men and women in the Church to serve in public offices of either election or appointment — including school boards, city and county councils and commissions, state legislatures, and national offices.
Sincerely your brethren,
Gordon B, Hinckley
Thomas S. Monson
James E. Faust
The First Presidency
