Wisconsin Pastor Matthew Trewhella Influences Republican Politics

Matthew Trewhella, a once-notorious anti-abortion activist from the 1990s, continues to exert significant influence on contemporary policies and movements, contrary to claims of his irrelevance. Investigative reporter Phoebe Petrovic from Wisconsin Watch uncovered Trewhella's ongoing impact while covering anti-LGBTQ+ protests led by a pastor affiliated with him. Notably, a county commissioner credited Trewhella's writings as pivotal in shaping his political views, highlighting the activist's enduring relevance. Experts warn of Trewhella's extremist ideologies, with Devin Burghart, president of the Institute for Research and Education on Human Rights, labeling him a "dangerous theocrat." Burghart emphasizes that Trewhella's beliefs could lead to significant societal harm, particularly affecting women, people of color, and the LGBTQ community. Trewhella's sermons advocate for violence, dismissing pacifism as "heresy" and suggesting that force is sometimes necessary to confront tyranny. In Wisconsin, Trewhella's influence is evident within the Republican Party, particularly in Waukesha County, where he has been invited to speak and his teachings are promoted. Despite inquiries about this connection, party leaders have downplayed their association with Trewhella. The investigation into his impact reveals a complex landscape of political extremism that continues to shape local and national discourse, raising concerns about the implications for democratic values and civil rights.