Rev. William Barber II, co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign, aligned with more than one thousand faith leaders this Sunday to support U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential bid against former President Donald Trump.<\/p>\n
Among the notable religious figures endorsing Harris are Rev. Kevin R. Johnson of Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City; Rev. Teresa L. Smallwood, vice president and dean of academic affairs at the United Lutheran Seminary in North Carolina; and Rev. Andrea C. White, a professor of theology and culture at Union Theological Seminary, also in New York City. It’s important to note that these endorsements were made in a personal capacity, not representing the institutions or congregations they are affiliated with.<\/p>\n
Rev. Barber expressed his stance clearly on social media, stating, “In a critical moment like this, it is essential for each voter to make a deliberate choice. My decision is to reject the perilous ideology propagated by Trump and the MAGA movement by supporting the candidates who can prevent the rise of American fascism.”<\/p>\n
“I’m endorsing Harris and Walz because we are facing a crisis of civilization and democracy,” Barber stated.<\/p>\n
Barber\u2019s decision stems from his concerns about Trump’s consistent misinformation, his support for gun ownership, his hostile anti-immigration rhetoric, and his economic policies that favor the wealthy, undermining the robust economy left by President Barack Obama. Specifically, he criticized Trump for significant tax cuts for the rich and his refusal to increase the minimum wage.<\/p>\n
Barber further emphasized, “I must oppose Donald Trump and his policies that prioritize the affluent, undermine healthcare, and oppose fair living wages.”<\/p>\n
He also highlighted Trump’s aggressive discourse, including a recent threat to use the National Guard against his political opponents if re-elected.<\/p>\n
“I must prophetically oppose Trump’s candidacy because he threatens to misuse presidential powers for revenge and destruction, and he regards himself as the sole remedy to America\u2019s problems, which amounts to idolatry,” Barber articulated.<\/p>\n
In contrast, Barber supports Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, for their commitment to addressing key national issues honestly and their collaborative approach to governance. He commended their economic policies aimed at raising wages and improving healthcare accessibility, their dedication to equal protection for all residents, and their initiatives to combat the climate crisis.<\/p>\n
“I’m endorsing Harris and Walz because we are amidst a critical juncture in our democracy and civilization. We don\u2019t need further authoritarianism. We must collaborate for a Third Reconstruction,” he expressed.<\/p>\n
As a preacher and organizer based in North Carolina, Barber has often criticized both political parties for neglecting the concerns of the poor and low-income citizens. He has actively mobilized these groups to demand attention from political entities. Earlier in October, he criticized the presidential debate organizers and the candidates for not adequately addressing poverty or providing comprehensive solutions. Additionally, last fall, he participated in a vigil outside the White House advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza.<\/p>\n
“I am not endorsing Harris and Walz because I think they are flawless,” Barber explained. “No person of faith should do that. I don\u2019t endorse them because I agree with them on every issue. I am endorsing them because I, like every American, have to choose who will lead our nation and shape our public policies for the next four years.”<\/p>\n
Barber also clarified his stance in a conversation with CNN, saying, “There is no neutral position on fascism. I have to be clear personally and hope other moral and religious leaders will follow suit.”<\/p>\n
Regarding policies on Gaza, Barber believes that a Harris administration would prove more amenable to negotiations than a future Trump administration. He shared his belief that Harris and Walz\u2019s “commitment to diplomacy provides the best opportunity for a lasting cease-fire in Gaza and preventing wars that would consume vast resources and many lives.”<\/p>\n\n\n