Challenges Faced by Pat Robertson: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 25, 2025

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Pat Robertson. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Pat Robertson was a prominent American televangelist, media mogul, and political commentator. He founded the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) and Regent University, advocating for a conservative Christian worldview. Robertson ran for president in 1988, demonstrating his active involvement in Republican politics and his influence within the Christian right. He was a key figure in the Charismatic movement and a significant voice in American religious and political discourse for decades.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1986: McCloskey Challenges Robertson's Military Record

In 1986, former Republican Congressman Paul "Pete" McCloskey Jr. challenged Pat Robertson's military record, leading to a libel suit.

1988: Robertson Drops Libel Suit

In 1988, Pat Robertson dropped his libel suit against Paul "Pete" McCloskey Jr. to focus on his presidential campaign.

1988: Unsuccessful Presidential Campaign

In 1988, Pat Robertson unsuccessfully campaigned for the Republican presidential nomination. This led to him never again serving in an official role for any church.

1990: Christian Coalition Sued by FEC

In 1990, the Christian Coalition, started by Robertson, was sued by the Federal Election Commission for coordinating activities with Republican candidates.

1992: Christian Coalition Sued by FEC

In 1992, the Christian Coalition, started by Robertson, was sued by the Federal Election Commission for coordinating activities with Republican candidates.

1994: Coalition Fined for Improper Aid

In 1994, the Christian Coalition was fined for improperly aiding Representative Newt Gingrich and Oliver North.

1994: Christian Coalition Sued by FEC

In 1994, the Christian Coalition, started by Robertson, was sued by the Federal Election Commission for coordinating activities with Republican candidates.

June 2, 1999: Allegations of Business Dealings with Charles Taylor

On June 2, 1999, The Virginian-Pilot alleged that Pat Robertson had business dealings with Liberian president Charles Taylor, which Robertson denied.

1999: Failed Venture with Bank of Scotland

In 1999, Pat Robertson's joint venture with the Bank of Scotland to provide financial services in the US fell through due to criticism over Robertson's views on homosexuality.

1999: Allegations Against Operation Blessing

In 1999, The Virginian-Pilot published an article alleging that Operation Blessing's planes were used to haul diamond-mining equipment to Robertson's mines in Zaire.

February 4, 2010: Charles Taylor's Testimony

On February 4, 2010, at his war crimes trial, Charles Taylor testified that Pat Robertson was his main political ally in the U.S., which Robertson denied.

August 11, 2017: Hospitalized After Horseback Riding Accident

On August 11, 2017, Pat Robertson was hospitalized after sustaining minor injuries from a fall during a horseback riding incident.

February 2, 2018: Embolic Stroke

On February 2, 2018, Pat Robertson suffered an embolic stroke at his home in Virginia Beach. He received prompt medical attention and was administered tPA, a clot-busting drug. He was discharged from the hospital two days later.

June 2019: Rib Injury from Fall

In June 2019, Pat Robertson was absent from The 700 Club after breaking three ribs in a fall. Upon his return, he described the experience as painful and thanked viewers for their prayers.