Why Not Newt?

During every election, I usually vote for Republican candidates since they tend to make decisions more in line with the Word of God than Democrats. While President Obama will likely be the Democratic nominee again this year, the Republican nomination may not be decided for a while. One man who might represent the GOP in November is Newt Gingrich. 

Last weekend, the former House Speaker came from behind in the polls to win the South Carolina Primary. This was surprising especially since two days before, the ABC news program “Nightline” aired a controversial interview with one of Newt’s former wives. Marianne Gingrich claimed that prior to their divorce, her husband wanted “an open marriage” (allowing for him to have a wife and a mistress at the same time). Newt has refuted his ex-wife’s claims.

Many people are quick to criticize Newt Gingrich because he cheated on his two ex-wives and got married a third time. However, he has repented as a result of his conversion to Catholicism. Newt told CBN News, “I have confessed my weaknesses, and I have had to go to God for forgiveness and reconciliation.” Since I have also gone through two divorces (but because of ex-wives being unfaithful to me), I can somewhat relate to the flak Newt has experienced.

For those of you uncomfortable with Newt Gingrich’s past sins, remember that Jesus told the Pharisees regarding the woman caught in adultery, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” (John 8:7) Let’s not forget other U. S. Presidents such as Bill Clinton had extramarital affairs while in office. Certainly, I’m not condoning adultery by our politicians. But God has used leaders like King David who committed adultery but were quick to repent.

The day after the South Carolina primary, I happened to watch YouTube videos of Newt Gingrich speaking last year at John Hagee’s Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, Texas. I was impressed with Newt’s knowledge of American history, his support for Israel, and especially his desire to see our country’s godly heritage restored.

I also like the fact Newt wants to revive our nation’s declining space program and put a permanent American base on the moon by 2020. As long as our more immediate problems on Earth are solved, the United States could have a very exciting future.

This article is not an official endorsement of Newt Gingrich for President. Unless a Democrat or independent politician rises up whose voting record is more closely aligned with the Judeo-Christian ethic, I’m praying for God’s choice to win the Republican nomination and the subsequent election. I will say I’d rather have Newt in the Oval Office instead of a Commander-in-Chief who condones killing unborn children and celebrates homosexuality in the White House.

“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” - Proverbs 29:2