Senator Lankford’s New Advisor Sparks Controversy
A conservative ethicist appointed by Republican Senator James Lankford from Oklahoma has drawn attention due to a history of criticizing former President Donald Trump and supporting more progressive causes. Matthew Albo, a bioethicist and former theology professor, announced on Wednesday that he will be joining Lankford’s office as part of the Senate Value Action Team.
Albo expressed his enthusiasm for the role, tweeting that he’s looking forward to working with Lankford and making strides on important issues that protect public goods.
His new position aims to help manage the value policy portfolio, although some have raised concerns about his qualifications for the role. Critics worry that his past actions and statements could undermine the effectiveness of the team. The American Accountability Foundation, a self-described conservative watchdog, has labeled his hiring as “embarrassing and disappointing,” even dubbing him a “Critical Race Theory apologist.” They referenced a tweet from 2020 where Albo dismissed the conservative opposition to Critical Race Theory as exaggerated.
“The complaints about Critical Race Theory are a bit comical at this point,” Albo reportedly said in that tweet.
Alongside this critique, the foundation expressed frustration, stating, “How do conservatives lose? We hire people like this.” William E. Wolfe, executive director of the Baptist Leadership Centre, also criticized Lankford’s decision, suggesting that Albo has consistently defended very liberal viewpoints in the past. Wolfe pointed out that Albo not only dismissed concerns about Critical Race Theory but also opposed the idea that Christians should seek religious exemptions from COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Wolfe shared additional evidence supporting his claims, highlighting Albo’s stance on the vaccine and urging caution among Christians regarding vaccine exemptions. Moreover, Breitbart noted that Albo has been openly critical of Trump, having blocked the former president on Twitter due to what he termed as “mean” posts, expressing his worries about the embarrassment of the presidency under Trump.
As of now, Lankford’s office has not replied to requests for comments on this matter.
