Adam Hamilton, founder of the country's largest United Methodist congregation, is the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in Kansas. No Democrat has won one of the state's Senate seats in nearly a century, so Hamilton is attempting the political equivalent of repairing a VCR with prayer and one tiny screwdriver.
A pastor walking into partisan weather
Hamilton leads the 25,000-member Church of the Resurrection in the Kansas City area. He is campaigning on affordability, civility and political bridge-building while facing Republican incumbent Roger Marshall, who portrays him as too liberal for Kansas.
His theology has also become campaign material. Conservative critics attacked a sermon suggesting non-Christians can attain salvation, while Hamilton's evolving support for LGBTQ+ inclusion has generated arguments from both religious and political opponents.
Faith can guide service without governing everyone
Hamilton says he would represent Kansans of every faith and none, not use public office to evangelize. He also plans to continue limited preaching if elected, following a rare path currently modeled by Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock.
The Constitution forbids a religious test for office, but voters can still examine how any candidate's beliefs shape policy. The useful question is not whether a politician prays. It is whether everyone else retains equal citizenship when the prayer ends.
AP's profile explores Hamilton's unusual coalition and long odds. Kansas voters will decide whether the pulpit is an asset, a liability or simply another job requiring better coffee.
Facts first. Side-eye included.
DJF separates what is confirmed from what is claimed—and tells you why this particular mess is worth your time.