One Nation, Indivisible with Andrew Seidel 037: The Christian Nationalist Gospel of Cutting SNAP Benefits
10 snips
Nov 4, 2025 Denying SNAP benefits isn't just about economics—it's a strategic push for Christian Nationalism, as highlighted by Andrew. Florida's voucher fiasco exposes a backlash when funds intended for Christian schools unexpectedly benefit others. In Texas, judges can now refuse to officiate same-sex weddings, raising questions about the implications of religious freedom. Plus, grassroots efforts are stepping up to combat food insecurity caused by these policies. This discussion reveals how faith and politics intersect in unexpected and often troubling ways.
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SNAP Cuts Advance A Religious Political Goal
- Andrew Seidel argues denying SNAP benefits advances white Christian nationalism by pushing the vulnerable toward churches.
- He connects this to the Constitution's duty to "promote the general welfare" and religious groups viewing government aid as competition.
State Welfare As Competition For Churches
- Seidel explains churches view state welfare as competition that shrinks church influence and pews.
- He cites historical and contemporary religious actors who prefer private charity to public safety nets for that reason.
Nuns Speaking Of "Fresh Victims"
- Seidel recounts reading the Little Sisters of the Poor history and their language about "fresh victims of misfortune."
- He uses this to illustrate how some religious groups seek vulnerable people to minister to and convert.
