Aren't Democratic Mormons just lapsed or inactive members (jackmormons)?

No! Active Democrats abound in the Church. Many are cowed by outspoken conservative members of their wards. The setting in Utah culture is ultraconservative. Members outside Utah are more likely to feel free to express liberal views. It is even more common in Europe for members to belong to progressive parties.

But aren't you just unfamiliar with doctrine?

Far from it. I grew up in the Church. I was baptized at eight, received the Aaronic Priesthood at twelve and graduated from Seminary. I held offices in Priesthood Quorums, attended Institute and went on a mission. I was married in the temple and currently have a calling in my ward. I read the scriptures and the Ensign. I pay tithing and fast offerings. None of this is meant for boasting, but to show I know the Gospel and sincerely feel the tenets of the Democratic Party are more in line with the teachings of Christ.

Well, aren't good Democrats the exception rather than the rule?

While I haven't polled all Mormon Democrats, I can tell you those I have known in Utah and elsewhere are strong, active members. They have an honest belief that they are supporting a party trying to help others. There have been LDS Democrats in every political office in Utah and throughout neighboring states. There are current candidates and elected officials who are righteous members that need support too.

Hasn't the Republican party always been a better fit for the LDS church?

Actually, at the turn of the 19th century the Church was so overwhelmingly Democrat the federal government was concerned Utah would not be competitive for the Republican Party. This was one of many reasons Utah's statehood was delayed. The First Presidency stepped in and executed a campaign to get half the members to join the Republican party to assuage the fears on the national stage. The Democratic Party has been popular even in Utah under such leaders as Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy. It can be popular again with the right message.

Then why are so many Church members Republican?

There are a lot of reasons: Concern over the Roe v. Wade decision, Western state issues, perceived loss of respect for religion in the Democratic Party and popular LDS leaders who where Republican. Once someone has identified themselves with one aspect of the Republican Party it becomes easy to be taken in by radio hosts and talking heads that the Republican Party equals the one "true" party. Unlike the Church, there is no one "true" political party.

What do we do about it?

We tell the truth. We fight lies and distortions from right wing politicians and pundits. We remind people Christ shared a message of love. We promote ideas aimed at correcting the problems facing our country. We expose Republican hypocrisy wherever we find it. We stand for freedom and equality. Lastly, we help others reach the same realization because we care about everyone.