My congressman – Mario Diaz-Balart – is not a statesman

At a town hall meeting on May 29, I had the opportunity to personally hand Florida Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart a copy of my letter regarding HR5 (“Equality Act”). In the letter, I address how he voted in favor of a bill which protects the LBGTQ community from discrimination and criminalizes Christians for their faith, if they don’t comply with this bill. Here is the link to my letter: https://allianceforreligiousfreedom.com/hr5-equality-act-criminalizing-christianity/

After introducing myself at the meeting followed by a few words of casual talk, the Congressman assured me he would get back to me with a response. The Congressman replied to me this past week. As you read this response, please keep in mind Congressman Diaz-Balart has publicly acknowledged he is Catholic and a Christian. Here is an excerpt from his letter to me:

“As you know, this bill would prohibit discrimination based on one’s gender identity, sex, and sexual orientation. While I voted in favor of H.R. 5 when it passed the House on May 17, 2019, I do believe it is a highly flawed piece of legislation that requires further debate in the Senate.
Protecting religious freedom has always been a priority for me. Throughout my time as your Representative, I have voted for and co-sponsored numerous bills that protect and promote religious freedom. I have also dedicated my career to fighting against discrimination in all its forms. There is no denying that this piece of legislation was just another messaging bill pushed by Democratic Leadership that has no chance of passing the Senate and becoming law in its current form. If House Democrats wanted to pass real legislation, they would have included bipartisan language providing legitimate protections for families, individuals, medical professionals, and religious organizations who object based on their deeply held religious beliefs. However, I cannot oppose a bill that seeks to prevent discrimination and that is why I voted in favor of H.R. 5.
I understand your concerns that this bill would weaken protections for religious institutions, medical professionals, and parents.” 

This is a typical statement of a waffling politician, saying at the same time “I’m for it and I’m against it.” The religious beliefs of those we elect into office, who profess to be Christians, is what provides security for America’s Republic and our citizens. So, what’s the difference between a politician such as Congressman Diaz-Balart and a statesman? A politician will compromise Biblical principles to gain favor with his party and constituents. However, a statesman will not compromise Biblical principles no matter what the cost. Founding Father and President John Adams was a statesman. He declared, “The duration of future punishments terrifies me” – knowing he would have to stand before God for his policy making.

We need to pray that God raises up statesmen to vote for in 2020 – not more waffling politicians.

“God commands you to choose for rulers, just men who will rule in the fear of God” –Founding Father Noah Webster

In the year of our Lord 2019 –
Sincerely, Tom Hughes
[email protected]
“In all your ways, acknowledge Him…” Proverbs 3:6