IRS Says Churches Can Endorse Candidates Without Losing Tax-Exempt Status

The IRS said churches can endorse political candidates to their congregations without jeopardizing their tax-exempt status, according to CNBC. The move overturns a 70-year-old interpretation of the Johnson Amendment, which barred churches and other nonprofits from endorsing political candidates without risking their tax-exempt status. President Donald Trump has repeatedly called for the repeal of the Johnson Amendment. The IRS said churches do not violate the Johnson Amendment when they address political matters as expressions of faith during religious services through customary channels. The statement was included in a joint filing with the National Religious Broadcasters and two Texas churches, which sued the IRS last year, alleging constitutional violations. A judge has not yet ruled on the motion for consent judgment.