By JANELLE PLUMMER
Observer Staff
Nov. 8, 2007

In an unprecedented move, conservative Christian televangelist Pat Robertson endorsed former mayor of New York City, Rudy W. Giuliani, in the race for the 2008 presidential election Wednesday.

Giuliani, a once liberal Democrat, is known for his supportive stance on abortion and gay rights, a contradiction to the feelings of conservatives and the moral right – an audience Robertson consistently appeals to.

Robertson, a presidential candidate in 1988, made the announcement at a National Press Club news conference.

Despite Giuliani’s stance on issues important to conservative Christians, Robertson, said that Giuliani had proven to be a “true fiscal conservative.”

Rudy Giuliani and Pat Robertson at the National Press Club
Photo by Lisa Tanger

“It is my pleasure to announce my support for America’s Mayor, Rudy Giuliani, a proven leader who is not afraid of what lies ahead and who will cast a hopeful vision for all Americans,” Robertson said.Giuliani said he is grateful for Robertson’s support and, most of all, his friendship.Giuliani is currently leading in the GOP polls, but still has yet to distinguish himself as the leading candidate, a Nov. 5 Washington Post article reported. It was reported in the same article that Giuliani holds his own among evangelical white protestants, he runs only “even” with Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Fred Thompson.

Earlier this year, Giuliani spoke at Regent University, a Christian-based university founded by Robertson.

“Robertson is a great leader,” Giuliani said. “He understands what America is all about. I thank him for his support and his insight. His friendship is even more invaluable.”

While Giuliani values their friendship, many people wonder how a conservative Christian and a once liberal Democrat coincide. Giuliani supports abortion and gay rights, while conservative Christians oppose those issues. As they overlooked those issues and looked toward the future, Robertson said that Giuliani had a vision.

“Rudy Giuliani took a city that was in decline and considered ungovernable and reduced its violent crime, revitalized its core, dramatically lowered its taxes, cut through a welter of bureaucratic regulations, and did so in the spirit of bipartisanship which is so urgently needed in Washington today,” Robertson said.

As the American people face terrorism and immigration issues, Robertson said that Americans need a man with a vision.

“The overriding issue before the American people, is the defense of our population against the bloodlust of Islamic terrorists,” Robertson said.

Robertson said he prays that Giuliani will lead the Republican Party in 2008.