The Body and Blood in American Politics

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The debate over the role of religion in politics is as old as any church or state, and the candidacy of John Kerry, as the first Catholic to run for U.S. president since John F. Kennedy is reopening old debates not heard for over 40 years.

At issue is a statement from a small number of Catholic bishops who say they will deny communion not just to politicians who support abortion rights, but even to the people who vote for them.

Since then, dozens of Catholic Democrats in Congress have signed a letter criticizing the stand taken by the Bishops. Why not add in other political and religious issues they ask, like the war in Iraq, or support for the death penalty? In this year’s unpredictable presidential race, now the very conscience of the voter is part of the debate.

Guests:

Rosa DeLauro, United States Representative (D-CT)

and TBA.