The Stephen Mansfield Podcast Still Here: The Johnson Amendment
Aug 13, 2025
Delve into the complexities of the Johnson Amendment and its impact on political endorsements by religious organizations. Discover the historical context and legal challenges that affect spiritual leaders today. The discussion emphasizes the importance of guiding congregations with principles rather than promoting individual candidates. Caution in political expression is crucial as faith leaders navigate the intersection of spirituality and social issues.
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Separation And Tax Exemptions Shaped Religious Civic Role
- The First Amendment created a tradition of state non-interference with religion and tax exemptions for religious organizations.
- This legal framework framed how churches and nonprofits functioned in American civic life.
LBJ's Swift Amendment To The Tax Code
- Lyndon B. Johnson privately introduced a change to the tax code in 1954 to restrict tax-exempt groups from endorsing candidates.
- His amendment passed by unanimous consent without debate, vote, or hearings and became the Johnson Amendment.
Distinction Between Issues And Endorsements
- The Johnson Amendment didn't bar all political speech; it targeted explicit endorsements of candidates by tax-exempt groups.
- Churches could still discuss issues and host candidates, but endorsements crossed the legal line.
