210 - New Details on Joseph Smith's Run for President I Religion & Politics I Church History Matters

210 - New Details on Joseph Smith's Run for President I Religion & Politics I Church History Matters

From Church History Matters by Scripture Central

June 23, 2026 · 1h 17m

About this episode

This episode explores Joseph Smith's views on religion, government, and his presidential campaign in 1844.

What happens when faith and politics collide? In this episode of Church History Matters, Scott Woodward and Casey Griffiths explore one of the most fascinating and controversial chapters in Latter-day Saint history: Joseph Smith’s views on religion, government, and the United States Constitution. What happened when Joseph Smith met with President Martin VanBuren? What concerns did he have about the protection of religious liberty in America? And what led him to launch an unexpected campaign for President of the United States in 1844? Join Scott and Casey as they examine the political and religious climate of Joseph Smith’s day, the persecution that shaped his views on government, and the reforms he proposed in his presidential platform. Along the way, they discuss Joseph’s teachings about constitutional principles, the role of religion in public life, and why his candidacy became a significant moment in both American and Latter-day Saint history. Whether you're interested in Church history, American history, or the ongoing relationship between faith and politics, this episode provides important context and thoughtful insights into Joseph Smith’s vision for the nation and his…

People in this episode

Hosts: Scott Woodward, Casey Griffiths

Topics covered

  • faith and politics
  • Joseph Smith
  • religious liberty
  • presidential campaign
  • American history
  • Latter-day Saint history

Keywords

  • Joseph Smith
  • politics
  • religion
  • American history
  • Latter-day Saints
  • Constitution
  • religious freedom
  • presidential campaign

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Latter-day Saint, United States

Books & works: Constitution

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