LDS Church contributes $1 million to coalition opposing Idaho abortion ballot measure
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donated $1 million to a faith-based alliance seeking to defeat Idaho’s Proposition 1, which would broaden abortion rights.
On Wednesday the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints pledged $1 million to an interfaith “No” campaign aimed at stopping Idaho’s Proposition 1, a ballot initiative that would allow abortions up to fetal viability and in medical emergencies. The coalition was organized by conservative Christian Blaine Conzatti of the Idaho Family Policy Center, Catholic Diocese of Boise lobbyist Christian Welp, and LDS representative Tom Luna.
Luna told listeners on the Neal Larson radio show that, despite doctrinal differences, the three faith leaders share a common goal of defending life and preserving Idaho’s “family values.” He said the donation will finance a broad media push, including social-media ads, radio spots, television commercials and streaming content. Since the measure qualified for the November 3 ballot, each side has raised millions, and Luna expressed cautious optimism while warning against complacency. An LDS spokesperson in Salt Lake City confirmed the gift, noting the church’s policy of remaining neutral on candidates while engaging on ballot measures with significant moral implications.
Why it matters
The donation shows how major religious institutions can shape state abortion policy through campaign financing.
In this story
