The Rise and Fall of Christian Nationalism in America

The narrative details the author's journey from a young evangelical to a key player in the Christian nationalist movement in America. Engaging with influential figures, the author worked to promote a right-wing Christian agenda, including efforts to end legal abortion and install religious symbols in public spaces. The author highlights the significant role of the federal judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, as a barrier to their goals, leading to strategic meetings with anti-abortion activists and conservative justices. The author recalls attending the National Association of Evangelicals convention in 1983, where a sitting president emphasized the need to restore Judeo-Christian traditions to combat secular humanism. This moment galvanized the movement, encouraging followers to fight for the nation's soul. The author also reflects on the corrupting influence of intertwining religion with politics, noting that it undermines both. In a pivotal moment, the author was invited to speak at a Judicial Breakfast Group event, focusing on the Ten Commandments, which underscored the importance of religious values in judicial decisions. The author trained donors to engage with conservative justices, reinforcing the significance of their rulings for America's future. The narrative culminates in a surprising encounter with Donald Trump at a religious event, illustrating the deep connections between political power and religious advocacy. The author concludes with a realization of the inherent corruption that arises when faith is co-opted for political purposes, emphasizing the need for a critical examination of this relationship.