Candidates shouldn’t have to hide religion

The United States of America was established by people who wanted to pursue religious freedom, not run away from religion. A presidential candidate’s religious affiliation is not an issue as much as his understanding of the protection of religious freedom under our “supreme law,” the Constitution. The First Amendment states: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ...”

A presidential candidate has the same First Amendment right to express his religious standards with the voting public as he has the freedom to share his political views, or love of a certain sport, a favorite dish or a special vacation spot. Where is it written in any law that a candidate must hide his religious beliefs from the public? That foolish idea has been advanced only by those who vilify religion and would stigmatize anyone who publicly expresses religious beliefs. To them, religion should be “taboo” in the public forum, hidden in a closet, only exercised in private. Since when?

If any candidate is guilty of pandering to the electorate on religion, the voters will take note of it. And if any candidate seeks to exploit religion in a way that is truly divisive, the voters will send an unmistakable message at the polls.

I believe now, more than ever, voters want to know if a presidential candidate is emotionally and morally intelligent, holding to the highest standards of integrity in his personal conduct, devoted to his family and country. A good president must have a strong moral core and has to know the difference between right and wrong even if he or she doesn’t always act on it. To suggest otherwise is contrary to the American ideal.

Arlene Sawicki

South Barrington