Chandler, Jackson, Sharpton Resign

WAYNESVILLE, N.C. -- The Rev. Chan Chandler, pastor of the East Waynesville Baptist Church, resigned today as a result of the controversy that has surrounded him since the days before the Presidential election last fall. Chandler, who openly shared his political viewpoints from the pulpit, endorsed President Bush last year and disparaged John Kerry. His comments were based on his opinion that Bush and the Republican party endorsed positions which were more aligned with the scriptural teachings of the Bible.

Jesse Jackson, a fellow Baptist preacher, was appalled at the idea that a pastor should not preach politics from the pulpit on a regular basis. In 1996, Jackson said, "If you go along and get along, you're a coward. Only by principled engagement can you be a force for change and hope." Today, he told stunned reporters at a press conference that he would resign his position with The Rainbow Coalition effective immediately "as a measure of solidarity with my fellow Baptist minister".

Not to be outdone, Al Sharpton, a Pentecostal minister, also called a press conference where he announced his resignation from the speaking circuit and from the Democratic Party. "I have heard nothing on this issue from the DNC. I can no longer remain a member of a political party that will not stand up for the rights of ministers everywhere to preach politics from the pulpit," he said. "If we don't nip this thing in the bud... there's no telling where it might lead."