Should campaigns collar clergy endorsements?

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/southsouthwest/chi-seekerboxaug03,1,454651.story?ctrack=1&cset=true

[Chicago Tribune] 03 Aug 2007--After triggering a debate that threatens to divide the worldwide Anglican Communion, the Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire has stirred another controversy. Rev. V. Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church, has endorsed Barack Obama to be the next U.S. president.

"As my work shows me every day, leadership means bringing people together and inspiring them to live out their values," Robinson said in a statement released by the Obama campaign. "Barack Obama sees beyond the partisanship and hopelessness that have dominated in recent years, and the movement he's building is bringing vital new energy and optimism into our democratic process."

Some Episcopalians resent Robinson, believing that far from "bringing people together" he has driven a wedge between liberals and conservatives in the Episcopal church. Some have left the church because they believe Robinson's relationship violates Scripture.

But his ringing endorsement also did not ring well in the ears of at least one interfaith organization. The Interfaith Alliance wagged its finger at all Democratic and Republican presidential candidates for seeking endorsements from clergy.