ECNETNews, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Oct. 16, 2024: In a recent Frontline documentary that aired on PBS on September 24th, the significant influence of Christian televangelist Paula White-Cain in endorsing Donald Trump to evangelical voters during his first presidential campaign was highlighted. White-Cain later took on the role of Trump’s spiritual advisor during his presidency.
White Evangelical Christians have consistently formed a crucial voting demographic for Republicans, often rallying behind socially conservative policies, particularly in relation to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey conducted between August 26 and September 2, 2024, a substantial majority of White registered voters across three major religious groups – Evangelicals, Catholics, and Protestants – expressed their intention to vote for or lean towards Trump if elections were held today.
This raises the question: why do many White Christians continue to support a figure whose platform is rife with controversy, lies, and divisive rhetoric?
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines Christianity as a faith rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing love for God and kindness towards one’s neighbor. Yet, a puzzling dynamic emerges regarding which individuals these voters classify as their “neighbors.” Is it primarily other White Christians who share similar backgrounds?
This notion becomes troubling when considering the quick acceptance of falsehoods and xenophobic narratives put forth by Trump and his political allies. For instance, many Haitians and Latin American immigrants are Christians, often Catholic. Why, then, do some White Christians endorse a leader who exhibits hostility toward these groups? Does their support stem from a selective definition of neighborliness based on race?
It is difficult to reconcile such support with Christian values, especially when considering Trump’s history of dishonesty, legal troubles, and incendiary remarks against various communities. For example, Trump’s outrageous claims, such as those suggesting immigrants are dangerous or dehumanizing accusations against Haitian migrants, contradict fundamental Christian teachings about love and acceptance.
Can individuals who identify as Christians truly affirm such hateful rhetoric, particularly when it includes calls to “Send them back,” as Trump did during a recent rally, reiterating unfounded fears about immigrants? The Bible, which Christians regard as sacred, contains numerous verses imploring kindness and compassion towards immigrants, including Leviticus 19:34, which calls for love and understanding towards strangers.
Yet, a noticeable disconnect persists among certain groups who applaud incendiary remarks from Trump rather than uphold the values of empathy and charity that their faith espouses.
