Faithful Politics

Matthew Boedy on Turning Point USA and the Politics of Faith

9 snips
Jan 27, 2026
Matthew Boedy, a professor and author who studies religion, politics, and extremism, joins to unpack Turning Point USA and the Seven Mountains Mandate. He traces how a missionary idea became a political strategy targeting institutions. The conversation covers Charlie Kirk’s role, martyrdom narratives, campus confrontations, church partnerships, and TPUSA’s pipeline into power.
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ANECDOTE

Reacting To Charlie Kirk’s Murder

  • Matthew Boedy recounts receiving news of Charlie Kirk's shooting while teaching and rushing home as details emerged.
  • He describes the emotional impact and the unusual nature of a non-politician being shot at a public speaking event.
INSIGHT

Turning Point's Institutional Expansion

  • Turning Point USA became a Christian nationalism mega-organization by expanding beyond campus youth work into multiple cultural arms.
  • Matthew Boedy says it now operates across politics, religion, media, education, and entertainment with major funding and staff.
INSIGHT

Martyrdom Fuels Movement Narrative

  • Boedy argues martyrdom fits a grievance-driven ideology, so Charlie's death was quickly mythologized by supporters.
  • Turning Point is deliberately crafting a sanctifying narrative to sustain mobilization and memory.
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