The Connection Between Faith and Politics

In Barack Obamas speech of “the Connection between faith and politics” Barack speaks at the “Call to Renewal’s Building a Covenant for a New America” and opens his debate on the subject of religion by giving an example of his opponent for US senator of Illinois in 2004, Alan Keys, and how Keys used Barracks faith as ammunition for a personal attack. Alan Keys criticized Barack Obamas beliefs by stating that “Jesus would not vote for Barack Obama”.  Although Obama states that there is a fine separation between politics and faith, he also implies that with faith comes politics and vise versa. He continues his speech by relating the topic of faith and religion to his own personal experiences. Although he did not grow up with any certain religion, Barack Obama found a home in the Christian faith when he moved to Chicago. He gives examples that many politicians and freedom fighters have indeed acted on faith and faith alone to persuade people in to agreeing with their point of view. For instance, he connects to Lincolns Second Inaugural Address and Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” because both influential figures relate to God in their speeches. Furthermore, the president gives a percentage of American’s who believe in God, who are atheist, and who also struggle with their faith. Obama also states that that he does not want religion to “belittle or divide” any persons from what they believe in. Barack Obama concludes his speech by stating a personal prayer that he wishes all of us could live in peace with every faith and belief.