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The Holy Post

657: The Government, God, & Grift with Katherine Stewart

Feb 19, 2025
Katherine Stewart, an investigative journalist with 15 years of experience studying the religious nationalist movement, dives into the evolving views of American Christians on foreign aid since the Trump administration. She highlights the disconnect between the ultra-wealthy funding the movement and everyday evangelicals caught up in conspiracy theories. The conversation exposes the complexities of faith and politics, as MAGA Catholics clash with Pope Francis over issues like immigration. Stewart also critiques the grifting within the far-right, revealing the ideological paradoxes that threaten democratic integrity.
01:26:25

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The shift among far-right Christians opposing international aid since the Trump administration signals a drastic ideological change affecting humanitarian assistance.
  • Katherine Stewart highlights a disconnect between wealthy funders of religious nationalism and grassroots supporters who are often misled by conspiracy theories.

Deep dives

Shift in Christian Support for Foreign Aid

Since World War II, the U.S. has maintained a robust foreign aid program largely supported by Christians across various theological and political spectrums. However, a notable shift has occurred since the start of the Trump administration, where far-right Christians have begun opposing international aid, questioning the motivations behind this change. This abrupt reversal raises concerns about the impact on those reliant on U.S. assistance, particularly in humanitarian crises. The conversation also explores whether similar ideological splits are emerging among more progressive religious groups regarding foreign aid.

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