IRS Drops Investigation Of United Church of Christ

Several months ago there was much ado in the press about the United Church of Christ being investigated by the FBI for illegal partisan electioneering. The whole matter stemmed from Senator Barack Obama, a member of the UCC, being invited to speak at the denominations general synod. There was a thought by the IRS that Obama people had been electioneering at the meeting.

I remember at the time my partner being rightfully suspicious of the investigation wondering if it was politically motivated. That suspicion still stands, but thanks to a thorough investigation the whole matter was dropped. The IRS determined that the UCC took sufficient steps to avoid any appearance that Obama's participation in the meeting was an endorsement of his candidacy.

Meanwhile on the Southern Baptist from the IRS also investigated the First Southern Baptist Church in Buena Park, CA. The pastor of that church had given a personal endorsement of Mike Huckabee. The investigation determined that it was only a personal endorsement and not on behalf of the congregation or church.

Though I still have my suspicions as to the “personal” nature of that endorsement, I think the IRS probably made the right decision. The rules on what churches can and cannot say regarding politics are vague and must be considered on a case by case basis. Though problematic, they still prevent churches from making political campaign contributions and full blown endorsements and that is a good thing.

Now, if the IRS could just find a way to investigate the hate-filled speech of so many of this country’s televangelists!