Legendary Christian evangelist Pat Robertson, widely known for founding the Christian Broadcasting Network and “700 Club” TV show, has passed away at 93, leaving behind a legacy of influence in religious conservatism.
Over five decades, Robertson became a staple in American homes, with millions tuning in to his broadcasts. What started as a humble Christian television station expanded into a media empire that touched various aspects of American life. He established Regent University, an evangelical Christian school in Virginia Beach, and launched the American Center for Law and Justice to defend religious individuals’ First Amendment rights. As a philanthropist, he spearheaded Operation Blessing, an international humanitarian organization.
Robertson’s influence reached the world of politics as well. His decision to create the Christian Coalition in 1987 helped religious conservatism become an integral part of the Republican Party, aiming to shape a more moral society. He ran for president in 1988, finishing second in the Iowa caucuses, behind Senator Bob Dole and ahead of Vice President George H.W. Bush. The importance of pursuing Iowa’s evangelicals in the race for the Republican nomination persists today, in part, due to Robertson’s influence.
With plans for the White House halted, he threw his support behind Bush, who went on to defeat Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis in the general election. Throughout his life, Robertson remained a prominent figure in shaping American conservative ideals and values. As the news of his passing spread, tributes poured in, and his contributions to
