First Things Podcast Faith in State Politics (ft. Cameron Sexton)
11 snips
Sep 18, 2025 
Cameron Sexton, Speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives, shares insights from his faith-driven public service. He explores his Southern Baptist roots and advocates for classical education, while emphasizing the importance of a moral order in politics. Sexton addresses pressing issues such as Tennessee's abortion laws, policies on gender transition, and the impacts of COVID mandates. He also balances compassion in immigration discussions with the need for public safety, offering a perspective on navigating faith in state politics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Faith Shaped His Path To Office
- Cameron Sexton grew up Southern Baptist and attends Central Baptist Church in Crossville, Tennessee.
- He says faith grounds him and has guided doors opening in his life and public service decisions.
Separation Misunderstood
- Sexton argues many misunderstand the true meaning of separation of church and state.
- He sees the founders as not rejecting faith in public life but endorsing a broader civic role for belief.
Faith As Hope And Resilience
- Sexton links faith to hope and resilience, arguing faith reduces despair and suicide.
- He says faith gives people a higher authority to rely on during crises, not just humankind.