Keywords

Mormonism, politics, Donald Trump, Republican Party, personal beliefs, human rights, political activism, Kamala Harris, abortion rights, LGBTQ rights

Summary

In this conversation, Sola and Carla Santamaria explore the complex relationship between Mormonism and politics, particularly in the context of the Republican Party and Donald Trump's presidency. They discuss the pressures within the Mormon community to align with certain political ideologies, the personal political evolution of individuals post-Mormonism, and the broader implications of the church's political stance on issues such as abortion and LGBTQ rights. The conversation highlights the struggle for personal beliefs against institutional pressures and the ongoing quest for justice and human rights.

Takeaways

• The exit from the Mormon church was traumatic for many.
• Mormonism has a significant influence on political alignment, especially with the Republican Party.
• There is a strong pressure within the Mormon community to support certain political candidates.
• Personal political beliefs can evolve significantly after leaving the church.
• The church's official stance on political neutrality is often contradicted by its members' actions.
• Issues like abortion and LGBTQ rights are central to the political discourse among Mormons.
• Many Mormons prioritize Supreme Court nominations over personal feelings about candidates.
• Activism and speaking out against injustice are core values for many ex-Mormons.
• The moral compass for political views often revolves around human rights.
• The conversation reflects a broader struggle for justice and ethical governance.

Titles

• Activism and the Ex-Mormon Experience
• The Future of Mormon Political Engagement

Sound Bites

• "I left the Mormon church for the same reason that I stayed."
• "I always come back to it."
• "I think that one of the biggest issues that Mormons fight against is the rights of the LGBTQ plus community."