Former Judge Dallin Oaks Expected to Become Next President of LDS Church
Dallin H. Oaks — a 93-year-old former Utah Supreme Court justice and long-serving apostle — is widely expected to become the next president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), which has over 17 million members globally. This follows the death of Russell M. Nelson, who had been church president since 2018 and passed away at age 101.
The LDS Church has an established tradition: the longest-tenured member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles typically succeeds the current president. Oaks holds that position, making his accession almost automatic under those norms. The formal announcement is expected shortly after Nelson’s funeral, scheduled for October 7.
Oaks is known for conservative positions on issues like same-sex marriage, religious freedom, and traditional values. While his presidency is not expected to depart radically from Nelson’s in doctrinal basics, analysts believe there may be a shift in tone: perhaps more focus on U.S. politics and internal matters rather than global expansion or outreach.
Because Oaks is already advanced in age, some observers are speculating about how long his term may be, and how his brief presidency might influence or delay leadership renewal in the church. New appointments (apostles) and changes in the First Presidency (his counselors) likely will reflect his theological priorities and leadership style.
For members anxious about continuity, Oaks’ likely presidency offers a mix of stability (due to clear precedent) and concern (especially among LGBTQ+ members) because of his history speaking out against same-sex marriage and related church policies. But some see potential for modest moderation in public tone, especially on sensitive issues, given the broader cultural environment.
Why It Matters
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Reinforces the LDS Church’s tradition of smooth leadership transition via seniority to avoid internal politicking.
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Signals what policies may receive attention or being reemphasized (e.g. religious freedom, internal church governance).
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Raises concerns about how the church will address issues of inclusivity, especially toward LGBTQ+ members, under Oaks’ leadership.
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Suggests a possible recalibration: more focus inward (U.S. based issues) rather than global outreach or reform.
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Offers a snapshot into how age and tenure play into authority and institutional stability in religious organizations.
Key Social Outcomes
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Communities may bristle or feel anxious among members who favor more progressive stances on gender, sexuality, or social justice.
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Reaffirmation of traditional doctrine may strengthen conservative sectors of the church, possibly alienating more liberal members.
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Potential for clearer delineations in how the church addresses policy vs doctrine vs culture wars in public square.
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Continuity may reassure many members who favor stability and tradition, helping prevent schism or contagion of internal unrest.
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New leadership may also lead to renewed dialogues about how the church balances faith and modern societal expectations.
Publication Date & Source
- Date: October 1, 2025 AP News+1
- Link: “Former judge is likely the next leader of the Mormon church and its 17 million members” — Associated Press (via AP News) AP News
