President-elect Donald J. Trump’s victory in the 2024 election is seen as a win for Republicans and a referendum on the importance of the religious voter. Trump’s support among Catholic, evangelical, and even Jewish voters saw an increase, particularly among Catholics. The election was also about competing worldviews, with a focus on a constitutional worldview that emphasizes objective morality versus a globalist woke worldview that suggests morals are fluid. Democrats are evaluating what went wrong in the election, including issues such as the economy, the border crisis, and abortion, and are recognizing the influence of conservative biblical worldviews on the outcome.
Dr. Alex McFarland, a religion and culture expert, highlighted the significance of religious freedom in the United States, emphasizing the conflict between whether man is the measure of all things or God. The dictionary defines a worldview as a collection of attitudes, values, and stories that shape our thoughts and actions, including ethics, religion, and philosophy. As Trump and religion intersect, there is a discussion about the Johnson Amendment that restricts clergy from discussing politics in the pews. After Trump won in 2016, he maintained regular communication with clergy leaders, demonstrating an understanding of the importance of their influence in shaping moral values and guiding the nation.
The battle between differing worldviews is reflected in the political landscape, with tensions between those who support a biblical worldview and those who lean towards a more secular perspective. The idea of Christian nationalism has become contentious, with some framing it as a negative force while others see it as an expression of Christian values in patriotism. The concept of freedom, particularly freedom rooted in biblical principles, is central to understanding the divide between the American Revolution and the French Revolution. As America grapples with these conflicting ideologies, the future of freedom and democracy is at stake.
As America heads into the holiday season, these competing worldviews will likely cause tensions among families and friends gathering for Thanksgiving and Christmas. McFarland emphasizes the importance of prioritizing relationships over political arguments, recognizing that politics are transient while personal connections are enduring. Regardless of differing opinions on Trump’s presidency, the reality is that he is the president-elect who won both the electoral and popular vote. The influence of religion on politics and society remains a significant factor in shaping the nation’s future direction.
In conclusion, the 2024 election outcome reflects the influence of religious voters and the impact of competing worldviews on American society. The clash between a constitutional worldview rooted in objective morality and a globalist worldview emphasizing fluid morals highlights the divide in the political landscape. The role of religion in shaping political decisions and policies, as well as the ongoing debate over issues like the Johnson Amendment and Christian nationalism, underscores the complex relationship between faith and governance. As Americans navigate these ideological divides, the message of prioritizing relationships and love over arguments serves as a reminder of the enduring values that unite us as a nation.
