House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) close associations with the far-right fringes of evangelical conservatism have come under scrutiny, particularly through his involvement with Onward Christian Education Services. Research by Accountable.US, shared with the Washington Blade, reveals that the board members of Johnson’s ministry hold extreme views on LGBTQ people, women, and evolution, raising concerns about the Speaker’s ideological affiliations.
Controversial Figures on the Ministry’s Board
The ministry’s board includes Judge Chris Victory of the Caddo Parish Court, known for his controversial record regarding law enforcement use of force cases, and Gevan Spinney, a senior pastor with a history of opposing LGBTQ rights and scientific consensus. Victory has been closely associated with Johnson, having represented him in legal matters and receiving his endorsement for judicial candidacy. Their relationship raises questions about Johnson’s stance on issues involving civil rights and law enforcement accountability.
Ray Comfort’s Influence and Anti-LGBTQ Stance
The investigation also highlights Johnson’s ties to Ray Comfort, a minister with strong anti-LGBTQ views, particularly concerning mpox (formerly known as “monkeypox”). Johnson’s long-standing role on the board of Comfort’s Christian publishing company underscores his connection to these controversial religious figures.
Judicial Controversies and Social Issue Stances
Judge Victory’s acquittal of police officers in a high-profile case of alleged excessive force and his involvement in a lawsuit against LGBTQ protections for government workers further illustrate the far-right leanings within Johnson’s circle. Additionally, the rejection of scientific views on evolution by Spinney, another board member, points to a broader rejection of mainstream scientific and social perspectives.
Implications for House Speaker’s Leadership
These revelations about Johnson’s ministry and its board members raise questions about his leadership and the potential influence of far-right evangelical views on his political decisions. The presence of individuals with such extreme positions in Johnson’s inner circle suggests a deeper alignment with ideologies that are often at odds with broader societal values and scientific understanding.
A Deeper Look into the MAGA Majority
The exposure of these connections is particularly relevant in the context of the current political climate, where Johnson leads a majority often aligned with MAGA ideologies. The composition of his ministry’s board reflects a segment of American evangelicalism that has increasingly merged with far-right political movements, challenging the separation of church and state and influencing public policy in significant ways.