Failed the bar exam and became a Southern Baptist pastor instead. Born in 1930, Robertson is an influential American televangelist, media mogul, political commentator, and former Baptist minister. He is best known as the founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) and the host of its flagship program, "The 700 Club." Robertson has played a significant role in shaping conservative Christian thought and the Religious Right's influence in American politics. Robertson ran for president in 1988, losing the [Republican](https://doctorparadox.net/the-gop-is-3-cults-in-a-trenchcoat/) nomination to George H. W. Bush, who went on to win the general election. ## CBN and the 700 Club In 1960, Robertson founded CBN, which would become one of the largest Christian television networks in the United States. CBN initially began as a small UHF station in Portsmouth, Virginia. However, it quickly expanded its reach, eventually becoming a global enterprise. In 1966, Robertson launched "The 700 Club," a daily Christian talk show that blends news, interviews, and religious teachings. The show has aired continuously since its inception and has been instrumental in spreading conservative Christian values and political opinions to millions of viewers. ## Right-wing political involvement Robertson has been an influential figure in American conservative politics. During his 1988 presidential campaign he emphasized [traditional family values](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/authoritarianism/strict-father-morality/), opposition to abortion, and a strong national defense. Although he did not win the nomination, his campaign helped solidify the growing influence of the Religious Right within the Republican Party. In addition to his presidential run, Robertson has been involved in various political initiatives and organizations. He founded the [[Christian Coalition]] in 1989, an influential conservative political advocacy group that sought to mobilize and empower Christian voters. Robertson has also been a vocal supporter of conservative political candidates and causes, often using his platform on "The 700 Club" to endorse or criticize various politicians and policies. ## Anti-gay political activism Throughout his career, Pat Robertson has been a controversial figure, making numerous contentious statements that have drawn criticism from both religious and secular communities. His comments have ranged from blaming natural disasters on societal acceptance of homosexuality to suggesting that the U.S. should assassinate foreign leaders. Robertson has a long history of anti-gay rhetoric and political activities, reflecting his conservative Christian beliefs. Over the years, he has made numerous controversial statements regarding homosexuality and has actively opposed pro-LGBTQ policies and initiatives. Some examples of his anti-gay activities include: 1. **Public statements**: Robertson has made various public statements condemning homosexuality, often describing it as a sin and an abomination. He has claimed that acceptance of homosexuality has led to societal decay and has even suggested that natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, were divine punishments for societies that embrace homosexuality. 2. **Opposition to same-sex marriage**: Robertson has been a vocal opponent of same-sex marriage, arguing that it undermines the traditional institution of marriage and goes against biblical teachings. He has used his platform on "The 700 Club" to criticize court rulings and legislation that support marriage equality. 3. **Support for anti-LGBTQ legislation**: Robertson has supported policies and legislation that discriminate against or limit the rights of LGBTQ individuals. For example, he has expressed support for the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which prevented openly gay individuals from serving in the U.S. military, and has spoken in favor of laws that allowed businesses to deny services to LGBTQ people based on religious beliefs. 4. **Criticism of pro-LGBTQ organizations and events**: Robertson has criticized LGBTQ organizations, such as the Human Rights Campaign, and events like Pride parades, claiming that they promote immoral behavior and contribute to the erosion of traditional family values (which apparently do not support [[human rights]]...). 5. **Christian Coalition**: As the founder of the [[Christian Coalition]], Robertson played a role in shaping the organization's conservative political agenda, which included opposition to LGBTQ rights. Under Robertson's leadership, the Christian Coalition lobbied against pro-LGBTQ legislation and supported conservative candidates who shared their views on homosexuality.