GOP Candidate Faces Backlash Over Sermons Calling Abortion Murder, Non-Christian Religions Witchcraft

A Republican candidate running for the Washington state House of Representatives is facing criticism after videos of her sermons surfaced, in which she described abortion as murder, even in cases of rape, and appeared to equate non-Christian religious practices with witchcraft.

Katy Cornell, a pastor at SOZO Church in Belfair and a candidate for the 26th Legislative District, has drawn scrutiny over her religious teachings. Recordings of her sermons, shared online by a group opposed to Christian nationalism, include statements where she referred to abortion as murder and a sin. Another recording captured her husband and fellow pastor, Tom Cornell, stating that any attempt to communicate with a deity outside of Jesus Christ constitutes witchcraft.

The controversy intensified after Tom Cornell acknowledged deleting "several thousand" sermons from the church's website and YouTube. He explained that he feared their religious teachings would be taken out of context during the election season.

Cornell has denied accusations of being a Christian nationalist, asserting that she does not advocate for the government to establish or enforce any religion. She told The Seattle Times that she is not running to be a pastor and intends to represent all constituents, regardless of their faith or political views. She stated her belief in limited government, individual liberty, and the protection of constitutional rights.

While Cornell acknowledged that her views on abortion are rooted in her religious convictions, she added that she would respect the will of the people and the initiative process. Her Democratic opponent, Renee Hernandez Greenfield, has expressed concern over the content of the sermons and the decision to remove them from public view, calling the situation "troublesome" and "concerning."