Founding Pastor Removed From Trump’s Team
Robert Morris, the founding pastor of Gateway Church and a former member of former President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board, has been removed from his role on the board following allegations of child sexual abuse. A spokesperson for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign confirmed that Morris, who previously hosted Trump at Gateway Church in 2020, is no longer part of the advisory board this year.
The exclusion comes in light of serious allegations against Morris. Cindy Clemishire, now 54, has accused Morris of sexually abusing her starting at the age of 12 in 1982, continuing for several years thereafter. The allegations have sparked widespread condemnation, including from Texas state Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, who described the revelations as shocking and emphasized the need for accountability and justice for the victim.
John Huffman, former mayor of Southlake where Gateway Church is based, expressed the community’s shock and distress over the scandal involving Morris. He underscored the expectation that leaders, particularly pastors, should uphold the highest moral standards, calling for Morris to be held accountable for his actions.
Despite efforts to seek justice for Clemishire, legal options are limited due to the statute of limitations in place during the time of the alleged abuse. Attorney Boz Tchividjian, representing Clemishire, highlighted the challenges victims face under current laws and advocated for reform to better address cases of childhood sexual abuse.
State Rep. Jeff Leach echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for legislative improvements to ensure justice for victims of child sexual abuse in Texas. He emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and providing support to victims and their families.
The unfolding situation at Gateway Church has drawn significant attention and calls for reform, reflecting broader concerns about protecting vulnerable individuals from abuse and ensuring accountability within religious institutions.