But, on a philosophical political level I find myself in basic opposition to theocratic governments of all stripes. Yeah, I'm conflicted in this case and can only take a long view that at some time both positions can form a synthesis.

This is a tough call. As you say, theocracies have a lousy record as a whole, but on the other hand, Bhuddism seems to be a relatively benign religion in this regard (relatively speaking, of course.)

The list of religious figures that have done a lot to promote freedom is impressive. Desmond Tutu comes to mind, as well as Martin Luther King Jr. There's Ghandi. Pope John Paul II had a lot to do with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Religious movements have had a lot to do with abolishing slavery.

I'm sure others could think of their own examples.

However I note that none of these figures, even the Pope, was an advocate for a government run by religion.