In less than 48 hours, the leader of the conservative public-policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention caused controversy by praising President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw his re-election candidacy. Subsequently, there were reports that he was fired, only for his agency to clarify that he still has the support of his top board members despite the resignation of the chairman.
This whirlwind of events began on Sunday, but by Tuesday morning, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of SBC clarified that leader Brent Leatherwood was not fired and he continues to have the support of his top board members, although the chairman resigned and apologized for the initial announcement of his removal.
On Monday, the commission stated that Leatherwood had been removed by the executive committee in accordance with the bylaws, but on Tuesday, they revealed that no official meeting or vote had taken place. Instead, Kevin Smith, the chair of the executive committee, had resigned.
The statement from the executive committee affirmed their support for Leatherwood moving forward. Smith, a Florida pastor, resigned from his positions and issued an apology for his actions, expressing regret for not following the proper procedures.
The previous vice-chairman of the ERLC, Tony Beam, has now assumed the role of chairman.
Despite the backlash on social media, Leatherwood stood by his statement applauding Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, calling it a āselfless act.” This sparked criticism from some within the denomination who were already unsatisfied with his leadership.
Throughout his tenure, Leatherwood has maintained conservative beliefs and policies, refusing to align himself with the more pro-Trump faction within the Southern Baptist Convention. Despite pressure to take a harder stance on issues like abortion, he has upheld the official positions of the SBC while advocating for stricter gun control measures.
While the ERLC has faced controversy in the past, it remains a key player in shaping the public views of the largest evangelical Protestant body in the country. The agency doesn’t endorse candidates but it influences policy decisions that align with conservative Christian values.
The resignation of Russell Moore in 2021 and the reports surrounding Leatherwood’s removal highlight the ongoing struggles within the SBC to balance their conservative beliefs with the changing political landscape.
AP reporter Travis Loller contributed to this report.
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