Zooming In at The UnPopulist From Conservative Civic Nationalism to MAGA White Nationalism: A Conversation with Jason Wilson
Sep 28, 2025
In this engaging discussion, journalist Jason Wilson, who covered the National Conservatism conference for The Guardian, dives into the transformation of the MAGA movement from a Republican insurgency to a dominant force. He explains the ultra-nationalist shift highlighted at NatCon 5 and explores the coalition of Trump loyalists, ideologues, and Christian nationalists. Wilson also critiques the rhetoric of figures like Senator Schmitt while examining conspiratorial narratives shaping the policing landscape, revealing how race and authenticity intertwine in today's politics.
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NatCon Reveals Shift To Overt Nationalism
- NatCon shows right-wing gatherings increasingly embrace overt nationalism and hostility toward opponents.
- Jason Wilson argues this marks a shift toward white identity as central to American identity.
MAGA Displaces Old Conservative Establishment
- MAGA has displaced older conservative factions and now dominates Republican politics.
- Wilson says this movement contains committed ideologues as well as loyalists who enable authoritarian projects.
Christian Nationalism’s Theocratic Ambition
- Christian nationalism is a distinct strand within the MAGA coalition with theocratic aims.
- Wilson highlights Douglas Wilson as emblematic of militants wanting biblical law to govern society.