After Lyndon Johnson was elected to the Senate, he changed the IRS Tax Code (in an underhanded fashion) in 1954 (I think) because most preachers in Texas knew how immoral he was and many of them denounced him from the pulpit.
Lyndon Johnson had it changed for his political survival, and that is why churches have the restriction today.
It was a very long and good tradition of the churches in American history (prior to 1954) to speak about politics and political candidates and office holders because of the moral implications for the congregation...
In other words, only about 1/4 of the history of the United States has had this restriction - which is an infringement on both Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Religion, in my opinion...
Thanks for the historical note on this. I've wondered when it changed but didn't know.
I grew up in OK and LBJ was hated by many people who knew how crooked he really was. Of course, OK had its own problems with corrupt Democrat politicians.
I continue to wonder today how so many black churches are still hosting politicians during services and encouraging support from the congregation? It sure appears there's a distinction between which party is allowed to solicit support in a church.