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As Election Day approaches, 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,
The First Presidency
