The determination and fervor of Christian conservatives had always been evident as they stood up to fight, viewing the struggle for the presidency as more than just political. The triumphant victory of Donald Trump, having come out on top, brought their dreams to life. About eight years ago, these conservatives pondered if Donald J. Trump, recently elected president, would come forth as the true beacon of their cause. Their patience had been tried, their spirits dampened, following the years of perceived submissive acceptances to liberal ideologies during Obama’s tenure. Yet, Trump rose to prominence and put their worries to rest.
Trump was unyielding in his dedication, ensuring that his pledge to ‘my cherished Christians’ continued to hold true. His relentless efforts were reflected in the ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court that overturned Roe v. Wade, an act that liberated the constitutional right to abortion. The astounding re-election victory of Donald Trump infused newfound energy into their spirits. They reckon Trump’s return represents far more than mere political victory – it symbolizes a divine one at that.
Ever since a miraculous escape from an assassination attempt in July, Donald J. Trump constantly cites divine intervention. His proclamation of triumph on Tuesday night reverberated with his continued assertion. ‘Countless individuals have expressed to me that there was a divine purpose behind my life being spared,’ Trump relayed to his supporters, ‘And that purpose was to rescue our nation and to resurrect America’s lost glory.’
In the realm of politics, it was rather uncommon for a president to claim such incredible influences like a ‘dictator’ just on the very first day of tenure. There has been a long history of politicians turning to religious texts, interpretations, or divine entities to bolster their position, yet, with Trump taking the center stage, the nation steps into unfamiliar territory. For the grand old party, Trump is not just their frontman but also serves as a symbolic personification of conservative American Christianity.
Undeniably, areas of contention and resentment have bubbled up since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, particularly given the enforced temporary shuttering of churches across several states. This public health intervention became a focal point for those suggesting the government machinery is wielded against Christians. Accelerated by the imposition of vaccine mandates and perceptions of preferential treatment towards protesters advocating for racial justice during the summer of 2020, these sentiments increased.
To quote Lt. Col. Allen West, chairperson of the Dallas County Republican Party, ‘A Big Mac now seems to bear more importance than our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’. This sentiment arose in respect to fast-food chains having been allowed to stay open during the pandemic lockdown period, whilst churches were closed. The stakes were clear.
The efforts of anti-abortion activists were successful, with victories on ballot measures in states like Florida, Nebraska, and South Dakota. As Trump gets ready for his tenure, it appears that no other religious faction on the democratic side, even medium as powerful as the Black church, can stand up to the sway or authority that the Christian conservatives proffer.
However, the Christian conservatives remained resolute and relentless in their pursuit. Their rhetoric spilled over with passion and an unwavering commitment. The election results rolled in, and Trump’s supporters were firm in their belief that divine intervention had its hand in play.