In response to President-elect Donald Trump’s choice of Steve Bannon to serve as his chief political advisor, Interfaith Alliance president Rabbi Jack Moline issued the following statement:

“The choice of Steve Bannon as chief political advisor in President-elect Trump’s White House is a clear indication that the concerns about the new president’s judgment were well-founded. Mr. Bannon has built a career on divisiveness and has celebrated the worst inclinations of American society. As campaign strategist, Mr. Bannon elevated misogyny, xenophobia and racism by reintroducing intimidation and intimation into the already fractious rhetoric. These tactics were consistent with his ignoble career in the private sector.

“A president is entitled to appoint his own staff, and no one, including me, must agree with every choice. This appointment, however, is different. It exacerbates the concerns of Americans who feared the consequences of a Trump presidency and makes reconciliation and healing that much more difficult. I call on Mr. Trump to reconsider this appointment for the good of his administration and the American people he hopes to unite.”

Interfaith Alliance celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.