As Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) we are encouraged to actively participate in civic duties, including the vital act of voting. However, the political landscape in the United States often presents voters with a stark binary choice between two dominant political parties: Democrat or Republican. In this context, many of us may feel constrained by the belief that we must choose between these two options, even when both candidates seem to fall short of their moral and ethical standards. But LDS voters, guided by their faith and values, should never feel confined to voting for a major party candidate if neither aligns with their conscience.

The Church teaches that voting is a sacred and moral responsibility, and we are encouraged to vote according to the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. When the available choices do not reflect those principles, we are not only permitted but encouraged to consider alternatives, including third-party or independent candidates or even write-in votes.

LDS voters should not feel confined to the binary choice presented by the two major political parties. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, voters are encouraged to prioritize moral principles over party loyalty, seeking out candidates who exemplify honesty, integrity, and righteousness—whether from major parties, third parties, or independents. Guided by conscience and the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, LDS voters have a sacred duty to choose leaders who reflect gospel values, even if those candidates come from outside the traditional two-party system. LDS voters in Utah have an opportunity to vote their conscience, yet not affect the outcome of the electoral college.

As President Dallin H. Oaks reminded members, political decisions should be guided by gospel principles, not by party allegiance:  “We should vote for the candidates who reflect our principles, regardless of party.”  – Ensign, October 2020, “Love Your Enemies.”

By voting based on conscience and principles, LDS members honor their responsibility to God and to their communities, standing as witnesses of truth and righteousness in all things.