Oppose Trump

In its more than 125-year history, the Tidewater Metro Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Virginia has not endorsed a political candidate. This statement doesn’t endorse but expresses sincere displeasure with policies, practices and personal demeanor of the current president.

Policies that seek to destroy health care access to millions are sinful and demonstrate depraved indifference to the citizenry. Policies that erode trust in electoral systems and disenfranchise many, violate our most sacred tenet, that all are created equal. Policies that skew justice systems to no longer protect all people are evil and threaten this nation’s core values. Policies resulting in needless deaths of hundreds of thousands of Americans demonstrate gross incompetence and render one unable to serve.

Practices leading to chaos, empowerment of rogue and racist elements, and exacerbation of social and racial tensions, are the real source of anarchy and stoke violence, threatening our core belief that this is “one nation under God.” Faith is not to be exploited for political expediency. Racial diversity is a strength not to be weaponized to pit Americans against Americans. God’s word beckons us to love our neighbors, regardless of race, creed and religion. Practices that denigrate others violate the greatest commandment.

Public office holders must have personal demeanor and integrity that inspires trust and confidence. Behaviors, prevarications, fact manipulation, denigration of women, and demeaning those who are disabled, erode public confidence and render one unfit for office.

The conference stands resolutely against the reelection of this current president.

Keith Jones, president of the Tidewater Metro Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Virginia, Newport News