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Podcasts Take Two
The role of spiritual advisors in presidential politics
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May 24, 2016
Listen 9:49
The role of spiritual advisors in presidential politics
Presidential candidates often turn to a slew of strategists and political advisors for guidance. Some times they seek out advisors for spiritual guidance as well.
Hillary Clinton stands for a portrait in San Antonio.
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Presidential candidates often turn to a slew of strategists and political advisors for guidance. Some times they seek out advisors for spiritual guidance as well.

On the campaign trail, presidential candidates often turn to a slew of strategists who help them sort out where to go and when, what to say, and how to handle debates.

But sometimes politicians need guidance of a different variety: spiritual guidance.

When Barack Obama was on the campaign trail, he received daily e-mail devotionals from Joshua DuBois, the president's so-called "Pastor-in-Chief."

And it turns out that Hillary Clinton also receives spiritual reflections on a daily basis. Hers come from a man named Burns Strider.

He doesn't hold an official position in her camp, but he served as Clinton's Director of Faith Outreach when she ran in 2008.

, an associate professor of History and Journalism at Rutgers University, joined Take Two to discuss the role of spiritual advisors on the campaign trail.

To listen to the full interview, click the blue player above.

Correction: In the audio version of this interview, our guest incorrectly stated that Billy Graham is deceased. KPCC regrets the error.