Trump Administration’s Attacks on Mainline Christian Denominations Intensify Amidst Rising Christian Nationalism
In a stark departure from the traditional American embrace of religious freedom, the nascent Trump administration has launched a series of attacks against mainline Protestant denominations, including Episcopalians, Catholics, and Lutherans. These attacks, fueled by a burgeoning Christian Nationalist movement, target these denominations for their charitable work with marginalized communities, including immigrants, refugees, and the LGBTQ+ community. The administration’s rhetoric increasingly paints these historic denominations as illegitimate and un-Christian, raising concerns about the future of religious liberty in the United States.
The first salvo was fired during the inauguration prayer service, when Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde’s plea for mercy towards LGBTQ+ children and migrant workers drew immediate criticism from Trump allies. This was followed by Vice President J.D. Vance’s unfounded accusations against the Catholic Church, claiming their assistance to immigrants and refugees was motivated by financial gain rather than genuine compassion. Most recently, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) became the target of Michael Flynn, the disgraced former National Security Advisor, who accused the denomination of misusing taxpayer funds for their charitable activities.
Flynn’s accusations, amplified by Trump loyalist and tech billionaire Elon Musk, focused on the ELCA’s work with immigrants and refugees, a recurring theme in the administration’s attacks on religious organizations. Flynn went so far as to question the ELCA’s legitimacy as a Christian organization, echoing a broader Christian Nationalist narrative that seeks to redefine Christianity according to a narrow, politically charged interpretation. He vowed to "examine them all and shut them down," further escalating the administration’s rhetoric against humanitarian efforts. Musk, leveraging his influence and newly established "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE), falsely claimed illegal payments were being made and pledged to halt them, adding another layer of intimidation to the attacks.
The ELCA, along with other targeted denominations, provides a wide range of social services, including foster care, adoption, food pantries, elder care, and resources for domestic abuse victims. Flynn’s attack, however, focused solely on immigration and refugee assistance, highlighting the administration’s broader anti-immigrant stance and weaponizing it against religious organizations that assist newcomers. This targeted assault comes amid growing concerns about Musk’s increasing influence within the government and his apparent disregard for established procedures and oversight, raising alarm bells about potential abuses of power and threats to democratic processes.
Experts warn of a potential "coup" by Musk, as he gains access to sensitive government data and bypasses established protocols. His swift endorsement of Flynn’s attack on the ELCA underscores his alignment with the Christian Nationalist agenda and adds to the growing unease about the future of religious freedom and governmental accountability under the Trump administration. Flynn, a prominent figure in the ReAwaken America Tour, a platform for MAGA politics and Christian Nationalism, has openly called for "one nation under God and one religion under God," further fueling fears of religious persecution and a theocratic vision for the United States.
ELCA leaders responded forcefully to the accusations, denouncing the misinformation and reaffirming their commitment to serving those in need. Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton invoked the story of Lawrence, a third-century Christian martyr who prioritized care for the poor above the demands of the Roman Empire, drawing parallels between the historical persecution of Christians and the current attacks on their humanitarian work. Other religious leaders have also spoken out, condemning the administration’s hostility towards religious freedom and the increasing marginalization of those who uphold values of compassion and inclusivity. The attacks on these denominations demonstrate the inherent dangers of Christian Nationalism, not only in its exclusionary rhetoric but also in its potential to undermine established democratic institutions and endanger the very fabric of American pluralism.
The Trump administration’s continued attacks on mainline churches represent a concerning escalation of Christian Nationalist rhetoric and actions. By targeting denominations that embrace inclusivity and social justice, the administration actively undermines the principles of religious freedom and pluralism. These attacks not only threaten the charitable work of these organizations but also create a hostile environment for any religious group that challenges the administration’s narrow and exclusionary vision of Christianity. The implications for religious liberty and the future of American democracy are profound and demand continued vigilance and resistance.
