Summary
This document provides some commentary and resources for religiously mindful people as we adapt to the coming four (or more) years of a new government administration in the United States.
Most of us are familiar with the views of the majority of evangelical voters who have their views well represented by Fox News and other sources.
This document intends to familiarize us with the 20% of evangelical voters who did not vote for Trump in the 2024 election. This minority group among evangelical voters can provide important insights into legitimate concerns.
Around the world we are seeing countries with strong leaders who fill their governments with subservient loyalists. We are seeing this style of leaderships in business as well. Those who disappoint get fired. Large groups of people get fired due to the whim of king-like leaders. How are people of faith to live in a world of seemingly increasing authoritarian tyranny? Lose interest and give up on the idea of improving the world? Grow stronger in faith and observance? This document offers some considerations to help people exploring these questions.
Majority and Minority Views
Among conservative religious people (Christian, Jewish, Muslim, other) who voted for Donald Trump, there tends to be a sentiment that Trump represents much that is antithetical to their beliefs, but he will provide something in exchange for votes. About 80% of evangelical Christians supported Trump.
Among the 20% of evangelical Christians who didn’t vote for Trump, some concerns remain going forward under his leadership. This document provides some context and then an opportunity for the 20% to express their concerns. Thus, this document is referred to a minority report.
We have more data regarding evangelical Christian voters, but other conservative religious groups seem to have an alignment politically and culturally.
80% of Evangelicals Support Trump
A report from Associated Press found that 80% of evangelicals voted for Trump in 2024:
- “…Trump once again won the support of about 8 in 10 white evangelical Christian voters, according to AP VoteCast, a sweeping survey of more than 120,000 voters. That level of support … repeats similarly staggering evangelical support that Trump received in 2020.” [Source: AP, 7 Nov 2024]
The 80% of evangelicals that voted for Trump are probably pleased with the ultimate negotiation outcome whereby they have the ability to influence the Federal Government in their favor.
Transactional Success
President Trump has had a fairly predictable in his transactional relationship with the voter block of evangelical Christians. Many times he has expressed his appreciation for their support, and on at least one occasion said, “I don’t deserve it” to acknowledge the contrast between his own words and life compared to what the Christian faith encourages.
As with other constituents and groups that make up his base, he identifies key requests that he can deliver on. For evangelicals, “religious freedom” is a common overarching phrase. Trump has promised, “We’ll be able to say Christmas again” implying that other political leaders and groups suppress religious speech and expression. He is seen as someone who will fight on their side of the culture wars. His influence in shaping the Supreme Court has helped create laws that will reflect evangelical beliefs regarding abortion.
Evangelicals who support Trump say that he’s an imperfect vessel, but a leader who is willing to give them something in exchange for their vote.
Summary of Concerns
Those who express ongoing concern about Donald Trump as president also have concerns about the MAGA movement. To summarize, there’s a sentiment that leaders should exemplify good morals, values, and behavior that help guide our society. When brutish leaders are given a platform, the rest of society collapses.
Videos
Below are some videos conveying concern about the character and behavior of those in leadership.
Patrick Kahnke (12 Nov 2024)
The video below is by Patrick Kahnke, a retired pastor and author of A Christian Case Against Donald Trump.
More videos from Kahnke are available on his YouTube channel — Culture, Faith, and Politics.
TikTok User Sweeper698 (8 Nov 2024)
A user on TikTok known as Sweeper698 posted a 5m 40s video about the election outcome. You can see the video and comments on his TikTok post, or watch the video below. NOTE: The video contains a few uses of strong language.