Anti-trafficking activist Tim Ballard told the Salt Lake Tribune that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints excommunicated him to prevent him from becoming a U.S. senator and to suppress his allegations of child abuse within the faith.

Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad, has faced multiple sexual assault lawsuits from women who worked with his organization. He has denied the allegations. The Church excommunicated him in 2024, citing violations of its standards.

Ballard told the Tribune he had reported concerns about child abuse to church leaders before his excommunication. The Church has not publicly responded to his latest claims. Ballard had been preparing a potential Senate campaign before the disciplinary action.