Jerry Falwell Jr. Endorses Donald Trump

Head of Liberty University, Son of Evangelical Icon Could Give Trump Big Boost Headed into Iowa

Jerry Falwell, Jr., right, presents Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. (Photo: Getty)

Jerry Falwell Jr., the head of Liberty University and son of the late evangelical icon, endorsed Donald Trump on Tuesday, giving the front-runner a real blessing ahead of the Iowa caucus.

In a statement announcing his endorsement, Falwell called Trump “a successful executive and entrepreneur, a wonderful father and a man who I believe can lead our country to greatness again.”

Trump quickly tweeted his appreciation for Falwell’s support.

“Great honor- Rev. Jerry Falwell Jr. of Liberty University, one of the most respected religious leaders in our nation, has just endorsed me!” he said.

Great honor- Rev. Jerry Falwell Jr. of Liberty University, one of the most respected religious leaders in our nation, has just endorsed me!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 26, 2016

People’s Pundit Daily did hear last week that this endorsement was coming, but could not confirm it. Falwell did cut a radio advertisement for Trump last week, but stopped short of endorsing, comparing Trump to his father by pointing out their disdain for political correctness.

Nevertheless, whether it came then or now, the endorsement is a blow to Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Mr. Trump’s chief rival in Iowa. Cruz, who desperately needs to consolidate evangelical support in Iowa (and beyond), announced his bid for the nomination at Liberty University. While he briefly led in the Hawkeye state, Cruz currently trails Trump on the PPD average of aggregate polls by 5.7%.