Vice President Kamala Harris is making efforts to appeal to voters who belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona, where there are nearly 450,000 church members. With a history of predominantly voting Republican, these voters could play a critical role in the upcoming election. Harris is aiming to prevent Donald Trump from securing a large portion of their votes, which could make a significant difference in a closely contested state like Arizona.
Members of the Church of Latter-day Saints who support Harris are making faith-based arguments, pointing to the church’s teachings on the U.S. Constitution being divinely inspired. They argue that Trump’s actions, including the events of Jan. 6, go against the values upheld by the church, such as humility, morality, and compassion. While the church itself does not endorse specific candidates or parties, individual members like Joel John are emphasizing the importance of voting for candidates who exhibit good moral character.
Despite efforts by Republicans like Halee Dobbins to portray Trump as a defender of traditional values, many Latter-day Saints have been hesitant to support him due to his history of controversial statements and behavior. Trump’s strained relationships with prominent members of the church, such as Sen. Mitt Romney and former Sen. Jeff Flake, have also contributed to this reluctance. In areas like the East Valley in metro Phoenix, where a significant LDS population resides, there has been a trend of voters rejecting Trump-backed candidates, creating opportunities for Democratic candidates like Harris.
The social expectation for members of the Latter-day Saints to align with conservative values remains strong, but Harris sees potential in appealing to younger voters within the faith. Brittany Romanello, an anthropologist who studies the culture and identity of Mormons, points out that younger members are more diverse and open to voting based on morals rather than strict party affiliation. Harris’s strategy includes focusing on these nuances within the LDS community, recognizing that personal values and beliefs can play a significant role in influencing voting decisions.
Overall, the efforts by Vice President Harris to engage with the Latter-day Saints community in Arizona reflect a broader trend of Democrats seeking to diversify their voter base by reaching out to traditionally conservative groups. As the state continues to be a battleground in national elections, the support of even a small share of LDS voters could make a difference in the outcome. By emphasizing shared values and appealing to the moral principles of the church, Harris is making a strategic move to secure support from a key demographic in Arizona.
