A Catholic advocacy group has intensified its efforts against Vice President Kamala Harris by launching an advertising campaign over her associations.

The campaign focuses on Harris' interaction with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, highlighting her stance on LGBTQ rights and criticizing her for anti-Catholic views, Fox News reported.

CatholicVote, a conservative group aimed at rallying Catholic voters, unveiled a $100,000 advertising initiative targeting Harris for her appearance with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence at the 2019 San Francisco Pride event. This group, recognized as a 501(c)3 charity, features queer and trans individuals dressed as nuns and is known for its advocacy on LGBTQ issues.

The advertisement relays scenes from the drag group's performances, criticizing them for their use of Christian symbols in ways many find offensive. The ad's rollout plan includes distribution to one million Catholic voters across pivotal swing states, aiming to influence perceptions of Harris ahead of upcoming elections.

Connection With Controversial Figures Sparks Debate

Response to the ad from political figures was swift. Former President Donald Trump voiced his disapproval, suggesting that Harris’ support for transgender athletes in women's sports and other actions have alienated the Catholic community. He asserted, "Kamala Harris has finally lost the Catholic vote. Her and the Democrat’s persecution of the Catholic Church is unprecedented!"

Brian Burch, President of CatholicVote, specifically criticized Harris' support for the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, labeling them as "a vile, hateful, anti-Catholic group" and demanding an apology from the Vice President. These comments highlight the deep divisions and the use of religious and cultural issues in political campaigning.

Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Defend Their Actions

In contrast, Sister Roma, a prominent member of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, defended the group's intentions and actions. Asserting that the group does not intend to mock religious figures or faith, Sister Roma emphasized their charitable efforts and community service, which include ministering to the sick and raising funds for various causes. "We do not mock religious women or advocate or practice hatred, hostility, or violence toward members of any religion," she stated.

The controversy surrounding the Sisters is not new. They were previously at the center of a dispute when recognized by the LA Dodgers, which also resulted in calls for a boycott from CatholicVote. This ongoing tension reflects broader societal debates over the intersection of faith, rights, and LGBTQ visibility.

Harris' History With LGBTQ Advocacy and Religious Backlash

Harris has been a longstanding advocate for LGBTQ rights, exemplified by her opposition to Proposition 8 and her support for same-sex marriage. However, her stance on other issues like abortion rights and religious exemptions in healthcare has drawn criticism from Catholic groups, which argue that her policies do not align with traditional Catholic values.

Further complicating her relationship with the Catholic community, Harris skipped the Al Smith dinner, an event traditionally attended by political figures to show support for Catholic charities. This absence was noted by critics as indicative of her strained relations with the Catholic electorate.

Impact of the Controversy on Voter Sentiments

CatholicVote's campaign is poised to stir significant discourse among Catholic voters, especially in swing states where even small shifts in voter allegiance can determine election outcomes. The deployment of the ad to CatholicVote's substantial email subscriber base adds another layer of complexity to how religion and LGBTQ rights intersect in public and political discourse.

The debate over Vice President Harris' association with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and her broader advocacy record showcases the challenging balance politicians must maintain between personal convictions and public accountability. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the reactions from various community segments will likely influence future policy directions and electoral strategies.