A Catholic Approach to the 2024 U.S. Election Season
“If there is no ultimate truth to guide and direct political activity, then ideas and convictions can easily be manipulated for reasons of power. As history demonstrates, a democracy without values easily turns into open or thinly disguised totalitarianism” (Pope St. John Paul II).
In just a few months’ time, American citizens from all walks of life will make their way to the polls to decide who will be the next president of our great nation. In an age when dissent from popular ideologies is often frowned upon, we face the question: How might we avoid tepidness and speak the truth with love? As Catholic businesswomen, how are we to navigate this political season, especially when our beliefs may differ from the beliefs of the people around us? How do we engage in meaningful, respectful dialogue?
The answer is far from simple and too expansive for a single online article. Yet, dear friend, I feel compelled to share my heart, my missteps, and the lessons I have gathered along the way.
“Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer).
Thoughts in the Minority
Being a Catholic woman in the workplace often means finding oneself in the minority, facing unique challenges when it comes to discussions on religion and politics. Religion, and politics, whether we welcome it or not, are inextricably intertwined—what is the secret to engaging in these discussions without succumbing to offense or hurt when our beliefs are challenged? How do we stand up for Biblical truths and Catholic teaching with respect and love?
Guard your tongue with utmost care. The Letter of James warns us that the tongue is akin to a rudder: Though small, it steers the entire vessel (James 3:4-5). In Proverbs, we are cautioned, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who choose one shall eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21). When we address matters close to the heart—particularly the Catholic faith and politics—we must do so with clarity, gentleness, and self-discipline.
Don’t be overly concerned with what to say or how to respond, for “God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). Before engaging in political discourse, take a moment to guard your heart “with all vigilance … for in it are the sources of life” (Proverbs 4:23). Why are you discussing these issues? Is it to share your beliefs or to make a point? Reflect upon your motives before plunging into the conversation.
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also follow the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25).
Duties of Diligence
Jesus has never been a candidate for the American presidency, and yet He remains the only candidate we Catholics could wholly endorse. So, what are we to do? Our civic duty calls us to prepare, even in Jesus’ absence from the ballot. What issues does each candidate champion? What does Scripture say? What guidance does the Catholic Catechism offer on these matters? Create a chart or a spreadsheet—whatever helps you visualize the positions of each candidate—and use it to guide you. Voting is both an honor and a privilege; take the necessary steps to ensure your decision is rooted in Biblical truth.
Catholic voters are called to prepare our consciences for voting and to advocate for just laws and policies after voting. Our focus should be on the defense of life, the needs of the weak, and the pursuit of the common good. Sister, immerse yourself in Catholic teaching. Go to Mass, pray the Rosary, go to Confession, and have a quiet time with Scripture daily. After all, His Word “is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105). Pray for discernment that goes beyond campaign rhetoric and partisan politics.
“If then my people, upon whom my name has been pronounced, humble themselves and pray, and seek my face and turn from their evil ways, I will hear them from heaven and pardon their sins and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Pray for Each Candidate
I tend to become very anxious as an election year comes to an end. Through the years, however, I have discovered a profound truth: There is wisdom in stepping away from the news. Instead, turn your heart and mind to simpler, nobler pursuits. Cherish your family, immerse yourself in a good book, or take a leisurely walk. It is our duty to be well informed and to vote with discernment, yet there are times when it is both wise and necessary to retreat.
The Letter to the Philippians offers a balm for our anxious hearts: “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Lay your election worries at Jesus’ feet and pray for each candidate, regardless of their party.
No matter the outcome of the election, we must hold fast to the truth that God remains sovereign, even when it seems obscure to our limited understanding, “for kingship belongs to the Lord, the ruler over the nations” (Psalm 22:29). In the end, it truly starts with us, sister—in our workplaces, in our homes, and in our hearts. Let us navigate this season rooted in faith, trusting in God’s sovereign plan, and striving to reflect His love and truth in every conversation and action.
Amber Apple is a Digital Marketing Manager by day and a writer by night. When she’s not weaving tales for her novel, you can find her in her natural habitat — snuggled up on the couch, lost in the pages of a captivating book, clutching a steaming cup of tea. Her love language is baking French pastries, so if you’re craving a daily dose of mouthwatering recipes and delightful musings, visit her blog, mrsamberapple.com, or connect with her on Instagram @mrsamberapple.