On Thursday, May 22, McCain, an Arizona senator, rejected Parsley’s endorsement in the wake of criticisms of statements Parsley has made about Islam. “Mother Jones” magazine has reported on the controversy and David Corn of the magazine produced a YouTube video on McCain and Parsley.

On Saturday, May 24, Parsley withdrew his endorsement.

“Certainly I am disappointed in Sen. McCain’s decision and I believe much of the fault lies with those who have misrepresented my views for political gain and who have lied in pursuit of political power. Therefore I withdraw my endorsement. It is a sad moment in American politics, one of many in this recent election cycle,” Parsley said in a prepared statement.

“My views on Islam, which have come under such scrutiny and misrepresentation, are very much in the mainstream. Anyone who has read the entire chapter on Islam in my book, Silent No More, understands that what I have said is echoed from the White House to the State Department, from leading universities to the pulpits of our nation.

“I believe that radical Islam is one of the greatest threats to Western civilization and, yes, this conflict has roots in our American history. I have always and will continue to make a clear distinction between Muslim terrorists and the vast majority of peaceful Muslims who are appalled at the bloody results of suicide bombers and mass murder. Once again, I unapologetically denounce those who spread death in the name of Allah.

“While I continue to believe peace loving Muslims need the full support of all Christians and Christians must provide understanding, cooperation and friendship to peace-loving Muslims throughout the world who share our desire for democracy and peace.”

It was the second time McCain had repudiated the endorsement of a religious leader. Earlier he rejected the endorsement of Texas televangelist John Hagee after criticism over an audio recording in which Hagee said that God sent Hitler to help Jews reach the promised land. Here is a YouTube video.

Hagee withdrew his endorsement and said his positions had been misrepresented.

Democrat Barack Obama also has had spiritual adviser problems. He ended up breaking with his former pastor Jeremiah Wright after criticism erupted over anti-American comments Wright made in sermons.

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