Evangelical pastor Jackson Lahmeyer, founder of the Pastors for Trump movement, announced the suspension of his campaign to represent Oklahoma's first congressional district, just one day after his advancement to a second round in the Republican primaries was projected.

The decision comes in the midst of a controversy caused by the publication of romantic text messages sent to a woman who is not his wife, recently revealed by the British newspaper Daily Mail. The episode raised questions about his personal conduct and ended up affecting a campaign that had the public support of President Donald Trump.

Lahmeyer acknowledges mistake and retires

Through a statement, Lahmeyer explained that he made the decision after consulting with his family and his close team.

“After prayerful reflection with my wife, Kendra, and my team over the past twenty-four hours, I have made the difficult decision to suspend my campaign for Congress,” he said.

The pastor also assured that he does not want to become a distraction for his family, his congregation or the voters of Oklahoma. Days earlier, he had admitted to crossing boundaries by exchanging text messages with another woman, although he maintained that the matter had already been discussed privately with his wife and spiritual advisors.

"I acknowledge that I crossed a line when texting. I also cut off all communication," he wrote on his X account.

Trump changes support heading into the second round

Lahmeyer gained national notoriety by promoting a network of conservative religious leaders in support of Donald Trump's 2024 re-election campaign. That closeness earned him the president's endorsement in May, during the Republican race in Oklahoma.

However, after the scandal, the situation changed quickly. Although Trump initially expressed support for the pastor, he later announced that he would endorse state legislator Mark Tedford in the runoff election.

“I greatly appreciate Jackson Lahmeyer's hard work under difficult circumstances,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “But when it comes to the current race for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District, I will support America First patriot Mark Tedford.”

Lahmeyer's departure virtually clears the way for Tedford in the race to succeed Republican Rep. Kevin Hern, who is now seeking a Senate seat.