Consider This from NPR Why Trump's Persecution Narrative Resonates With Christian Supporters
Feb 2, 2024
Candida Moss, a theology professor and author of "The Myth of Persecution," dives into Donald Trump's narrative of being persecuted amidst his legal troubles. She examines how this rhetoric resonates with his Christian supporters by drawing parallels to historical persecution within the faith. Moss highlights the dangers of conflating political criticism with true persecution and discusses how cultural shifts have influenced evangelical responses. The conversation also reveals how victimhood rhetoric shapes political identities and power dynamics among religious communities.
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Trump's 2016 Appeal to Christians
- In 2016, Donald Trump addressed Christian voters, highlighting perceived attacks on their beliefs.
- He pledged to defend Christianity, emphasizing it would be cherished and protected like never before.
Persecution Narrative and Christian Base
- Trump consistently portrays himself as a target, claiming persecution due to his identity and political stance.
- This resonates with his Christian base, for whom persecution has deep theological significance.
Persecution as Political Rhetoric
- Trump's persecution rhetoric resonates with his white evangelical base, who perceive attacks on their values.
- Candida Moss, a theology professor, argues that a constant claim of persecution obscures actual instances of it.
