CatholicVote.org (CV) is a dynamic new national project employing powerful new media and technology focused on shaping the minds and imagination of the American people through prayer, grassroots education, and action.

Founded in 2008, CatholicVote.org is neither conservative nor liberal, neither Republican nor Democrat. We aspire to be something even greater. The late William F. Buckley once described the purpose of National Review, the celebrated magazine that he founded, by explaining: "It stands athwart history, yelling Stop!" CatholicVote.org might similarly be described as "standing athwart history, yelling Rejoice!"

We rejoice first in the certainty that despite the turmoil of our world, with Christ there is always hope. The challenges of our time, both political and otherwise must not lead to despair, but instead must be welcomed as an invitation to set the world on fire with a real and lasting hope. Our prayer and hope is that this time of great trial might also become a period of great courage, witness, and conversion.

As our name suggests, CatholicVote.org is proudly Roman Catholic, but also counts among its membership tens of thousands of Protestants, Mormons, Jews, and members of many other faith traditions. Even an atheist wrote recently to tell us of his admiration for CV! Our mission and work is not exclusive to Catholics, and involves a set of universal truths common to all Americans beginning with our Declaration of Independence.

  • We celebrate the great gift of every human life, and seek new and effective ways to communicate this truth to our elected officials, cultural leaders, and our fellow citizens.
  • We believe motherhood is one of societies greatest treasures, and must be affirmed and protected in law, and held in esteem in our communities.
  • We believe science and medicine must be oriented toward the authentic good of the human person, from natural conception to natural death.
  • We respect and affirm the time-honored institution of marriage as between one man and one woman.
  • We oppose the death penalty as an unnecessary legal sanction, which in our day constitutes an affront to the dignity of the human person.
  • We believe that the state has a responsibility to directly intervene to defend the "weakest among us," but also believe that its indirect role in assisting the poor and those in need is just as important.

Government must respect the principle of subsidiarity by nurturing the sub-political or intermediate institutions such as churches, private charities, families and local governments. In its efforts to aid those in need, the state often risks becoming an obstacle to the true good of the person, and an impediment to the flourishing of true Christian charity.

Frequently Asked Questions about CatholicVote.org

Is CatholicVote.org just for Catholics?

Absolutely not! Tens of thousands of non-Catholics, and even a few atheists have joined CatholicVote.org because they appreciate our unique approach to shaping the mind and imagination with creative and powerful campaigns. While a majority of our membership is Catholic, we welcome all people of good will who seek newer, joy-filled and more effective ways to tell the world about the great gifts of life, faith, and family.

Is CatholicVote.org run by or funded by the Catholic Bishops? Is CatholicVote.org officially a part of the Catholic Church?

No. CatholicVote.org is an independent non-profit effort of lay Catholics who support the teachings of the Catholic Church, however we are not funded or managed by the Catholic Church. 100% of our funding comes from private donations from our members.

Are you liberal or conservative, Republican or Democrat?

We are none of the above. CatholicVote.org is proudly non-partisan, but not shy about commenting generally on the platforms, candidates, or issues taken up by political parties or elected officials. We believe that people of all political parties should embrace the important role of life, faith and family in our country, and in the world. We are committed to educating, and helping shape the opinions of Americans about the importance of these issues, regardless of political party or affiliation.

Do you endorse candidates for political office?

No. CatholicVote.org is a Project of Fidelis Center for Law and Policy. CatholicVote.org is organized as a project under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service. We are focused on issues, and the cultural trends that help inform political choices, but not specific electoral choices themselves. We do not advocate for the election or defeat of specific candidates for office.

Who runs CatholicVote.org?

CatholicVote.org is managed by a team of full-time staff along with the help of outside consultants, media and web agencies, and volunteers. Some of our key employees include:

  • Brian Burch, President
  • Joshua Mercer, Director of Communications
  • Kara Mone, Project Coordinator

How do I contact CatholicVote.org?

You can reach us immediately via e-mail at info@catholicvote.org or by phone at (312) 201-6559.

Our mailing address is:

P.O. Box 2709,

Chicago, IL 60690

CatholicVote.org