The Gist Katherine Stewart on Christian Nationalism's Influence on Conservatism
12 snips
May 19, 2025 
Katherine Stewart, author of 'Money, Lies, and God,' dives deep into the pervasive influence of Christian nationalism on modern conservatism and the Republican Party. She discusses the blurred lines between genuine and performative beliefs in the Trump administration, particularly concerning economic policies. The conversation also touches on the evolution of identity politics and its threat to democracy, as well as the alliances formed between evangelicals and political figures. Stewart critiques media narratives around Biden's mental acuity, advocating for transparency in today's political discourse.
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New Right Thinkers' Role
- The "thinkers" of the New Right include intellectuals who sometimes draw from extreme ideologies and nihilism.
- They act as intermediaries between wealthy funders and grassroots Christian nationalists, aiming to become a new elite.
Wealthy Funders' Motivations
- Wealthy funders often seek both financial gain and ideological justification for their wealth.
- Many embrace ideologies supporting authoritarianism and repression to maintain their status.
Anti-Woke as Distraction
- The anti-woke movement serves as a distraction focusing on culture war issues like transgender rights.
- This scapegoating mobilizes an authoritarian movement undermining democracy.
