Christian Coalition of America

Christian Coalition of America is a prominent Christian right organization in the United States, founded in 1989 by televangelist Pat Robertson following his presidential campaign. It emerged from the political mobilization efforts of the Moral Majority and quickly became a major force in Republican Party politics, advocating for socially conservative policies. The group is best known for its sophisticated voter education and mobilization drives, distributing millions of voter guides in churches to influence elections at all levels of government. Its mission centers on representing the concerns of evangelical Christians and other social conservatives in the public policy arena.

History and founding

The organization was established by Pat Robertson in 1989, capitalizing on the network and momentum from his failed 1988 bid for the Republican presidential nomination. It effectively succeeded the Moral Majority, founded by Jerry Falwell, which had disbanded earlier that year. Under the initial leadership of Executive Director Ralph Reed, the coalition developed a highly effective strategy focused on local organizing, most notably through distributing non-partisan voter guides in thousands of churches. This "stealth" strategy aimed to take over local GOP precincts and school boards, a tactic detailed in Reed's 1996 book Active Faith. The group's influence peaked in the mid-1990s, playing a significant role in the Republican Revolution that gave the party control of the House of Representatives in the 1994 elections.

Political activities and influence

The coalition's primary political activity has been its massive voter mobilization and education efforts, famously distributing tens of millions of voter guides comparing candidates' positions on issues like abortion and prayer in school. It organized a vast network of local chapters and activists, aiming to influence outcomes in elections for the United States Congress, state legislatures, and local offices. The group held influential events like the "Road to Victory" conferences, which featured major figures such as Newt Gingrich and George W. Bush. While its direct electoral clout has diminished since the 1990s, it remains a vocal advocate within the Conservative coalition and continues to issue scorecards rating members of Congress on its priority issues, influencing primary challenges and policy debates.

Organizational structure and leadership

The national organization is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has been led by President Roberta Combs since 2001, following Pat Robertson's tenure. It historically operated through a federated structure of state affiliates, though many have become inactive. The group's board of directors has included prominent conservative figures such as former Ohio Secretary of State Ken Blackwell. Its operations are funded through member donations, grants, and fundraising events. While it maintains a lobbying presence on Capitol Hill, its organizational model shifted from a mass-membership grassroots entity to more of a professional advocacy group and clearinghouse for information in the 21st century.

Policy positions and issues

The coalition advocates for a platform centered on social conservative values, strongly opposing abortion and supporting the appointment of judges who adhere to an originalist interpretation of the United States Constitution. It champions school prayer and promotes school choice initiatives, including vouchers for private schools. The organization supports a traditional definition of marriage, opposing same-sex marriage, and advocates for a robust national defense, aligning with neoconservative foreign policy stances. It has also been a consistent voice for religious liberty, often filing amicus briefs in landmark cases before the Supreme Court of the United States, such as those concerning the Affordable Care Act.

Controversies and criticism

The organization has faced numerous controversies, including allegations of illegal coordination with political campaigns in its voter guide distribution, leading to investigations by the Federal Election Commission and the Internal Revenue Service. Its tax-exempt status was revoked in 2006 for prohibited partisan political activity. Critics, including groups like Americans United for Separation of Church and State, have long accused it of blurring the line between church and state. Internal strife has also occurred, notably between Ralph Reed and Pat Robertson over strategy and finances. Furthermore, some of its staunch positions, such as opposition to the HPV vaccine, have drawn criticism from public health officials and even some within the Republican Party.

Category:Christian right organizations in the United States Category:Political advocacy groups in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1989