Robertson ends endorsements

NORFOLK, Va. – As the Christian Broadcasting Network turns 50, evangelist Pat Robertson said he’s getting out of the political endorsement game.

Robertson’s decision marks a significant departure for the founder of the Christian Coalition, who was once a central figure in Republican politics. The 81-year-old was frequently sought out by GOP candidates hoping to curry favor with religious conservatives.

“I’ve personally backed off from direct political involvement,” Robertson said in a telephone interview with the Associated Press. “I’ve been there, done that. The truth of the matter is politics is not going to change our world. It’s really not going to make that much of a difference.”