Each election cycle, the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops conducts the Candidate Questionnaire Project to assist Catholics and the broader community with the obligation to become informed voters. Being familiar with candidates' positions on issues involving human life, dignity and the common good is essential to responsible, faithful citizenship.
All U.S. Congressional and Florida legislative candidates appearing on the ballot in the primary and/or general elections have been invited to participate in a questionnaire regarding their positions on public policy issues related to the teachings of the Church. Candidates have been asked to identify whether they support or oppose seven issues covering a range of topics. Although the questionnaires do not address every area of concern, care has been taken to identify those issues likely to be acted on by lawmakers during the coming term. In addition to their positions on the issues, candidates have been given the opportunity to include brief comments on each question. Candidate positions on issues are gathered for informational purposes only and are not used for endorsement of any candidate or political party.
Whether on Election Day, during early voting or by absentee ballot, casting our votes responsibly requires us to be informed. When it comes to marking the ballot, reconciling politics with the basic values of the Gospel and the tenets of our Catholic faith can be difficult. If we take the time to inquire where the candidates stand on issues that are important to us, we are better prepared to address this challenge.
Materials prepared as part of the Candidate Questionnaire Project are approved by the bishops of Florida for use in parish bulletins or diocesan publications. Surveys or polls by outside organizations are not approved for distribution by Church entities unless prior approval has been granted by the local diocesan bishop or the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Effective for the 2012 elections, both U.S. Congressional and Florida Legislative district boundaries have changed due to the redistricting process. Please visit the website of your county Supervisor of Elections to verify your districts.
