To the Editor:

As an organization committed to safeguarding freedom of religion, we were disappointed to learn that the first live debate between Toledo's mayoral candidates emphasized the candidates' religious views over their qualifications, policy positions, and integrity.

The debate inappropriately politicized the religious beliefs of Mike Bell and Keith Wilkowski, and made it appear as if the candidates' "favorite Bible passages" and "conceptions of Jesus" are more relevant than their experience and political views. The religious focus of the debate may also have alienated those from different backgrounds and faiths, including those who are not religious, and made them feel excluded from the electoral or political process.

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the ADL neither supports nor opposes any candidate for political office. We urge candidates to keep in mind that public professions of religious beliefs should not be central to their political campaigns.