Continue the restrictions on non-profit organizations' political activity
Current law (the Johnson Amendment) prohibits nonprofit organizations, including churches, from endorsing political candidates or engaging in partisan political activity, as a condition of maintaining their tax-exempt status. A proposal to repeal this restriction has been debated. This entry reflects support for keeping the existing restrictions in place.
Arguments For & Against
Pro Argument
Tax-exempt organizations exist to serve the common good — not to engage in partisan politics. Political activity by these organizations would effectively mean taxpayers are subsidizing partisan campaigns. Houses of worship and universities should not become venues where people feel pressured to vote for particular candidates.
Con Argument
Religious leaders and nonprofit heads have important perspectives on moral and civic issues. The government should not muzzle their free speech by threatening their tax-exempt status if they endorse candidates.
Source document: Johnson_Amendment_Quaire1117.pdf
| Type | Organization | Date | Nat | Rep | Dem | Gap | Metric |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New PPC Survey (2026) | Program for Public Consultation | February 2026 | 79% | 80% | 80% | 0% | favor |
| Deliberative Survey | Program for Public Consultation | November 2017 | 79% | 71% | 88% | 17% | other |
Program for Public Consultation — February 2026
Continuing to prohibit non-profits that receive tax-deductible donations, such as churches and universities, from endorsing and providing financial support to political candidates.
Program for Public Consultation — November 2017
Change current law and allow tax-exempt organizations to endorse political candidates and provide them money and other support, while keeping the organization's tax-exempt status.
Related Policies
Pass a new Constitutional amendment allowing Congress and states to restrict corporations and PACs from spending money to influence elections
82% national support
Encourage small campaign donors by providing a tax credit for small donations
67% national support
Increase disclosure requirements for campaign-related spending by: corporations, unions, and other groups; individuals or groups paying for TV or radio ads; and federal contractors
83% national support