Prime Cut

The Democratic Party of Louisiana is resorting to smear tactics in an effort to win the prized office of governor in Louisiana. They are broadcasting a TV ad which misrepresents writings by Jindal on religion, especially Catholicism.

The ad says Jindal calls Protestants "scandalous, depraved, selfish and heretical." If you define "depraved" as a deviation from what is right or proper, I can't say I disagree with those words. I've often called the "Reformation" the "Deformation" as it deformed Christianity more than any intended reform. Oops. I've just disqualified myself from any future elections for Louisiana governor.

It's a risky move for the Democratic party. They risk offending practicing Catholics and hopefully some non-practicing Catholics too. ("Hopefully" in the sense they would be offended by someone attacking something a part of their life even if they fail to currently recognize its importance and value.) As Louisiana allows its vices industry to proliferate for fiscal gain, the ad campaign just might work. Why?

Catholicism is sadly perceived by some as the Christian religion tolerant of drinking. This incorrectly translates as a license to drunkenness for too many. Protestant faiths are perceived as the religion you go to to dry out. So as the industry of vices spreads in Louisiana, the Protestant faiths will too. This means more Protestants. More Protestants means more people willing to listen to and agree with the Democratic smear.

Labels: bobby jindal, democrats, louisiana, politics, religion