Times and Seasons published a systematic analysis of the Church's political involvement over the past five decades, responding to recurring questions about when and why the Church takes public positions on legislation and ballot measures.

The piece includes a chart documenting instances where the Church has officially engaged in political issues, examining patterns in the types of questions that prompt institutional statements. The author addresses both descriptive patterns—what the Church actually does—and possible rationales for its approach.

The essay arrives on the eve of elections, when questions about the Church's political role typically intensify among members and observers.