Welcome to Part 1!
In this episode, we briefly unpack the history behind American Christian nationalism, focusing on why Christian nationalists believe America was founded as a Christian nation and how the Moral Majority normalized direct interference of religion in politics. We talk about how Christian nationalism is alive and well in the current Trump administration, singling out Paula White and Russell Vought as two theocratic staffers in the White House who both wield an enormous amount of power and influence over policy.
Stay tuned for Part 2: Factions.
Christian nationalism is real. It is real in the sense that it is theologically backed by literalist interpretations of Scripture and has millions of adherents in the United States alone. I think most people are ill-informed about Christian nationalism and have two reactions: either exaggerate hysterically or dismiss immediately. This introduction serves as a suggestion: we shouldn't do either. Taking Christian nationalism (and the people who follow it) seriously is important. I think it's something we should all keep in mind when studying extremism of all brands, but especially with religious extremism—where emotions and convictions tend to run high.
Next up is part one: All of God's Men.
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