Evangelist Franklin Graham is clarifying comments he made at the 2026 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) after telling attendees it was important to “do everything we can” to get President Donald Trump “reelected”—despite the constitutional limit preventing a third presidential term.

Speaking Thursday at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, Graham expressed strong personal support for Trump while acknowledging the president’s imperfections. “God loves you. He loves this country. And I love Donald Trump. Is he perfect? No. But I love that guy,” Graham said. He went on to praise Trump’s willingness to openly speak about faith, adding that the president is “not ashamed of the name of Jesus Christ.”

Near the close of his remarks, Graham urged those in attendance to support Trump’s continued influence, stating, “That’s why it’s important that we do everything that we can to try to get him reelected.” The comment quickly drew attention, given that Trump is currently serving his second term and is barred by the U.S. Constitution from being elected again.

A spokesperson later clarified that Graham misspoke and did not intend to suggest a third presidential run. According to a statement issued after the event, Graham intended to emphasize support for Trump’s policies, not for the president’s return to the ballot.

“It was a privilege to speak at CPAC,” Graham said in the statement. “Early in my remarks, I made the point that ‘President Trump is not on the ballot, but his policies are.’ As I closed, I meant to say that we need to reelect President Trump’s policies, but misspoke. I appreciate the opportunity to clarify any confusion.”

Graham, the son of legendary evangelist Billy Graham and president of the humanitarian organization Samaritan’s Purse, used much of his speech to highlight what he sees as the spiritual and political stakes facing the nation.

He thanked Texas for its energy production and credited Trump-era policies for strengthening American oil independence. Graham also addressed global tensions, describing the U.S. as being “at war with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” while distinguishing between the Iranian government and its people, whom he called “wonderful.”

Throughout his remarks, Graham emphasized that his identity is not rooted in party affiliation. “I’m not a Republican. I’m not a Democrat,” he said. “I’m a conservative and most importantly, I’m a follower of Jesus Christ.”

Still, he made clear his support for Trump’s leadership, even comparing the president’s role to that of Queen Esther in the Bible—suggesting that God may have raised him up “for such a time as this.” Graham credited Trump with advancing religious freedom, supporting Israel, and influencing key judicial decisions, including the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Looking ahead to the 2026 midterm elections, Graham urged conservatives to remain unified. “Sometimes it seems like we eat our own,” he said, warning that division could weaken their ability to succeed politically. He encouraged leaders to handle disagreements respectfully while maintaining a united front.

Graham also voiced concern about the growing role of artificial intelligence, suggesting it could complicate the future of free and fair elections. Referencing the book of Revelation, he warned of a coming global system of control, tying current technological advancements to broader prophetic themes.

Despite the controversy surrounding his remarks, Graham’s clarification underscores his central message: while political leaders come and go, he believes the policies and values shaping the nation remain the greater focus.