

From Republican Darling to Political Outcast with David French
Jul 30, 2025
David French, a New York Times columnist and former civil liberties attorney, discusses the high personal cost of standing by principles. Once celebrated in conservative circles, his vocal opposition to Donald Trump led to alienation from his church and community. He dives into the importance of free speech, even when it's uncomfortable, and reflects on moral courage in a polarized world. French also examines the shifting landscape of evangelicalism and the struggle to remain principled in an era that often rewards tribalism.
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Virtue as the Sacred Core
- David French holds virtue as his sacred core principle, emphasizing character over belief.
- He sees virtue as essential to the American experiment and human flourishing, blending classical and biblical virtues.
Pricetag of Principled Stance
- David faced tests of his principles when defending free speech for those he disagreed with.
- These trials led to rejection by his church and community due to refusing to follow political loyalty.
Family History as Moral Compass
- David reflected on his Confederate ancestors as a test of his moral courage.
- He wonders if he would have stood against his community for truth as his ancestor George Thomas did.