Family Research Council’s Tony Perkins endorses Smith in CD-4

Tony Perkins, a conservative activist and the president of the Family Research Council, announced today that he is endorsing Rep. Chris Smith (R-Hamilton) for re-election in the 4th congressional district.

“The most vulnerable, whether at home or abroad, have always been able to count on Congressman Smith,” Perkins said in a statement. “He has been an effective, consistent leader, standing up for pro-life policies and the protection of basic human rights including the fundamental human right of religious freedom.”

Since it was founded in 1983, the Family Research Council has been among the country’s most prominent cultural conservative organizations, lobbying for a “pro-family” agenda and fighting to limit abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Perkins, who is also an ordained minister, became the organization’s president in 2003.

Perkins’ endorsement signals that Smith, who faces numerous challengers from the right, is seeking to shore up support in the culturally and religiously conservative wing of his party. Earlier this month, Smith got the backing of Rev. Shawn Hyland, who briefly challenged Smith for the nomination.

Among Smith’s remaining opponents in the June primary are podcaster Mike Crispi, Englishtown Councilman Daniel Francisco, attorney David Burg, realtor Mike Blasi, and perennial candidate Tricia Flanagan. Former President Donald Trump has not endorsed any of the five challengers, but has expressed his hopes that Smith loses re-election.