Billy Graham urges Americans to vote for 'biblical values'

Charlotte, N.C. — Christian evangelist Billy Graham has taken out a full-page advertisement in more than a dozen newspapers in battleground states across the country, urging Americans to vote for biblical values on Election Day.

"The legacy we leave behind for our children, grandchildren and this great nation is crucial," Graham says in the ad.

He goes on to say: "I believe it is vitally important that we cast our ballots for candidates who base their decisions on biblical principles and support the nation of Israel. I urge you to vote for those who protect the sanctity of life and support the biblical definition of marriage between a man and a woman. Vote for biblical values this November 6, and pray with me that America will remain one nation under God."

The advertisement comes after Graham, 93, and his son, Franklin Graham, met last week with Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney who was in North Carolina for a campaign rally.

After that meeting, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association deleted an article from its website which lists Romney's religion, Mormonism, as well as others, as a cult.

A spokesman for the association said the move was to avoid a "theological debate about something that has become politicized" during the presidential campaign.

Franklin Graham has previously refused to say whether he thinks Romney is a Christian.

Pressed during an interview in February on MSNBC, Graham would not say Romney is a Christian.

"He is a Mormon," Franklin Graham said in February. "Most Christians would not recognize Mormonism ... but he would be a good president if he won the nomination."

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Any thoughts on politics should be welcomed by all who appreciate Billy Graham’s personal efforts and ministerial missions for there are few in modern times that have impacted the world in the positive way the Billy Graham has. Why is it okay for other religious leaders to endorse candidates for the Democratic party but not a well respected individual such as Billy Graham to speak about what he believes and the principles he has spoke about his entire life? Billy Graham's name and reputation are well beyond reproach. At a time when our Nation is in great distress you want to tear down a man who has done nothing but good his whole life. We need more men like Billy Graham and possibly less of those individuals who will criticize men such as him. President Barack Obama has voiced support for abortion rights and same-sex marriage and has taken a position against God’s word. Seems to me the president has made a choice and Billy Graham, a 96 year old retired evangelist is a person that

jrfergerson
October 24, 2012 10:19 a.m.

All Christians should take their conscience with them when they vote. A true Christian would not vote for someone that agrees with abortion and same sex marriage, period. Graham can say whatever he wants, we have freedom of speech in this country, if you want to take it as he is twisting your mind then maybe you need to revisit what your Christian life is based on. Sounds like you need prayers. Have a blessed evening. Goodnight WRAL.

so you dont like my opinion ok
October 22, 2012 4:42 p.m.

Graham has no right to urge the American people how to vote. We know how we want to vote without his input. He is a Republican surely; but the DEMOCRATES is the right way to go. He needs to leave the bible out of it. Many do read the bible, but like me, we don't need him trying to twist up our minds. We do have plenty of sense. I don't believe he realises what he is really saying. Prayers for him.

charmcclainlovesdogs2
October 22, 2012 4:14 p.m.

I am a christian also and will be casting my vote for Obama. I have to wonder where Graham christianty really is. He cannot tell anyone how to vote. That would be wrong.

charmcclainlovesdogs2
October 22, 2012 4:12 p.m.

I'm a Christian and will be voting for Obama.

wakeresident
October 22, 2012 3:32 p.m.