Evangelist Franklin Graham has been an avid supporter of former President Donald Trump over the last few years. However, during a recent press conference, he revealed that he will be staying out of the Republican Party’s primaries.
While speaking at a ribbon-cutting event for the new Billy Graham Library, he revealed that he does not identify as a Republican, but rather an Independent.
“I’m an Independent. I’ve been an Independent probably for about 20 years,” Graham said. “I’m just disappointed in politics in America. When you think of the divisions that we have. We need to be coming together to try to solve the problems that we face as a nation.”
He condemned the division in politics and the “hatred” filling the United States, adding that “the only hope for this nation is God and to turn to him.”
AMEN!
When asked how he felt about former President Donald Trump announcing his bid for the 2024 presidential election, Graham simply laughed and said that he is staying out of it this time.
“I’m staying out of the Republican primary and debate and that sort of thing,” he said, noting that he will continue to focus on God and preaching the gospel.
The evangelist then showed his appreciation for former Vice President Mike Pence, who was in attendance of the ribbon cutting. Graham said, “There are a number of Republicans that have great leadership abilities, but Vice President Mike Pence has served this nation and he’s served it well. And I hope that his role in serving this nation is not finished.”
In years prior, Graham was more outspoken about politics and Trump. After the 2020 presidential election, he stated that he was grateful for a president who could deliver so many wins for the Conservative movement.
“President Trump will go down in history as one of the great presidents of our nation, bringing peace and prosperity to millions here in the U.S. and around the world,” Graham said at the time. “May God bless him, Melania, and their family, as God leads him to the next chapter in his life.”
