The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement Wednesday morning congratulating U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
“We invite Americans everywhere, whatever their political persuasion, to join us in praying for the president-elect, for his new administration and for elected leaders across the nation and the world,” the statement said. “Praying for those in public office is a long tradition among Latter-day Saints. The men and women who lead our nations and communities need our prayers as they govern in these difficult and turbulent times.”
“We invite Americans everywhere, whatever their political persuasion, to join us in praying for the president-elect, for his new administration and for elected leaders across the nation and the world.” —LDS First Presidency
With all but three states (New Hampshire, Arizona and Wisconsin) being called, Trump won the 2016 Presidential Election with 279 electoral votes over Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Clinton’s 228 electoral votes, as of Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. MDT.
Besides congratulating Trump, the LDS leaders also thanked Clinton — as well as her supporters — for participating in the political process.
“We also commend Secretary Hillary Clinton and all those who engaged in the election process at a national or local level,” LDS leaders said in a statement. “Their participation in our democratic process, by its nature, demands much of those who offer themselves for public service. May our local and national leaders reflect the best in wisdom and judgment as they fulfill the great trust afforded to them by the American people.”
The LDS Church does not support a specific candidate, but it does encourage its members to participate in the political process by being informed and voting. On Oct. 5, the First Presidency of the LDS Church sent a letter to congregations to be read in the service, which said:
“Principles compatible with the gospel may be found in various political parties, and members should seek candidates who best embody those principles.”