Straight White American Jesus

The discussion takes a deep dive into the selective biblical justifications used by conservatives to push anti-immigration agendas. It critiques the inconsistency between calls for compassion in scripture and the xenophobic rhetoric often employed. The host highlights the theological perspectives on inclusion and the challenges of addressing exclusionary interpretations of the biblical text. Additionally, the conversation examines how concepts like 'orderliness' are manipulated to shape social views on undocumented immigrants, raising important questions about faith and policy.

Doug Pagitt, Executive Director of Vote Common Good, dives into the Democratic Party’s struggle with religious voters. He reveals alarming survey results indicating many Christians perceive the party as unfriendly to faith. The conversation emphasizes the need for better outreach and inclusivity within faith communities. Pagitt highlights how narrative and identity play critical roles in voter engagement. He calls for intentional strategies that welcome both religious and non-religious individuals to create a more united political front.

A solo host digs deep into how the MAGA movement is reshaping education and societal norms. Highlights include the rollback of support for English language learners and attacks on sanctuary cities. The discussion critiques the toxic rhetoric surrounding immigration and sheds light on the detrimental effects of dismantled diversity and inclusion programs on marginalized students. By connecting historical context to contemporary issues, the host emphasizes the need for vigilance and collective action against these dangerous shifts in policy.

This special reflection examines the controversial legacy of James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family. It highlights his authoritarian parenting styles and their disturbing ties to eugenics. The discussion connects Dobson's influence on family dynamics and purity culture to broader themes of Christian nationalism. The impacts of his teachings on gender roles and societal norms are critiqued, revealing their lasting effects on American politics and culture. The underlying connections to racism and anti-immigrant sentiments are also explored.

Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ In this first episode examining Allie Beth Stuckey’s chapter on immigration, Dan considers Stuckey’s question “what happened?” to bipartisan support for immigration reform. She suggests that liberals and progressives have become radical on the issue of immigration and drifted far from the American mainstream. But Dan argues that Stuckey, and those on the right like her, have misled Americans for decades about their real positions on immigration, masking a desire to maintain a White America. As this has come more clearly into view, more and more Americans have come to oppose their views. Check out this week’s episode to hear more! Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Subscribe for $5.99 a month to get bonus content most Mondays, bonus episodes every month, ad-free listening, access to the entire 850-episode archive, Discord access, and more: https://axismundi.supercast.com/ Brad interviews Dr. Nafeez Ahmed, author of "Alt Reich," about the historical and contemporary roots of fascism and white supremacy in Western politics. They discuss the evolution of far-right ideologies from the 1930s to the present, the influence of eugenics and organizations like the Pioneer Fund and Heritage Foundation, and the mainstreaming of racist ideas in both the US and UK. The conversation highlights the cyclical nature of political disillusionment, the dangers of extremist groups gaining power, and the role of key figures like Steven Miller and Curtis Yarvin in shaping current policy and rhetoric. Alt Reich book: https://www.nafeezahmed.net/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/StraightWhiteJC Order Brad's book: https://bookshop.org/a/95982/9781506482163 Check out BetterHelp and use my code SWA for a great deal: www.betterhelp.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the hosts tackle the federal takeover in D.C. and the appointment of a controversial economist with extremist ties to oversee jobs data. They dive into the cultural roots of authoritarianism, examining how fear and emotion are weaponized in politics. The duo offers sharp insights on the intersection of crime narratives, public perception, and governance, and they reflect on the darker implications of recent judicial appointments. Amidst the chaos, they provide hope and resilience against state control and advocate for social justice.

The discussion dives into why conservative Christians perceive themselves as persecuted despite holding societal privilege. It critiques the conflation of discomfort with actual suffering in modern Christianity. The paradox of powerful groups claiming victimhood illustrates broader themes within Christian nationalism. Historical shifts in Christianity's status highlight changes in perceptions of suffering. The rhetoric surrounding this topic raises important questions about societal dynamics and invites listener engagement for deeper understanding.

Leah Litman, a law professor at the University of Michigan and co-host of 'Strict Scrutiny,' dives into the Supreme Court's political dynamics. She discusses how conservative grievances and conspiracy theories influence judicial decisions, particularly on voting rights and LGBTQ equality. Originalism's impact on marginalized groups is examined, alongside the Federalist Society's role in shaping the court's ideology. Litman also advocates for significant reforms to democratize the Supreme Court, including court expansion and new ethics standards.

Dive into the urgent drama of gerrymandering, particularly in Texas, where political maneuvers threaten democracy. The conversation examines the fallout of unfair redistricting on voter representation and citizen engagement. A shocking appointment of a January 6th rioter to the Department of Justice raises alarms about political integrity. Despite these challenges, the podcast highlights global resistance against authoritarianism and the potential for change through art and activism, igniting a call for civic engagement.