Pat Robertson, Evangelical Leader and Christian Political Trailblazer, Passes Away at 93

Televangelist Pat Robertson, the founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network and a significant figure in the Christian right movement, passed away on Thursday, as announced in a news release from the network.

According to the release, Pat Robertson, who was known as a longtime TV host, religious broadcaster, educator, humanitarian, and one-time presidential candidate, died at his home in Virginia Beach early Thursday morning. He was 93 years old.

Regent University in Virginia, which was established by Robertson, also expressed their sorrow for his loss. William L. Hathaway, the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, shared a statement saying, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved founder. Dr. Robertson was a globally-renowned leader, broadcaster, philanthropist, educator, author, accomplished businessman, and – most importantly – a faithful servant of God who dedicated his life to glorifying the Lord and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ."

Born in 1930, Robertson founded the Christian Broadcasting Network in 1960 and became a Southern Baptist minister a year later. He utilized his television platform to promote conservative Christian values, addressing topics such as gay rights, feminism, abortion, and other social issues.

Robertson played a pivotal role in the rise of the conservative evangelical movement as a political force on the American right, contributing to the election of Ronald Reagan. He also ran for the Republican nomination for president in 1988, finishing behind both George H.W. Bush and Bob Dole.

Following his presidential campaign, Robertson founded the Christian Coalition of America, which advocated for conservative Christian political candidates. He also returned to hosting his TV show, "The 700 Club."

Throughout his career, Robertson expressed controversial opinions and made inflammatory statements. He often linked acts of terrorism or natural disasters to divine retribution for what he perceived as moral wrongdoing. In a September 12, 2005 broadcast of "The 700 Club," shortly after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, he discussed the issue of abortion, shedding light on his views.

In more recent years, Robertson became a supporter of former President Donald Trump and even associated the Las Vegas mass shooting in 2017 with perceived disrespect toward Trump.

Pat Robertson leaves behind a legacy that encompasses his contributions to Christian broadcasting, his involvement in politics, and his controversial statements.