The Trump Era and Evangelical Politics: Insights from Peter Wehner

Faithful Politics

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them)

In this episode of the Faithful Politics podcast, Josh and Will welcome Peter Wehner, a prominent political commentator, author, and senior fellow at the Trinity Forum. Peter Wehner shares his extensive background in public service, including roles in the Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush administrations. The discussion dives into the intersection of Christianity and politics, exploring how Peter's faith journey influenced his political career and writing. They discuss the contemporary Christian landscape, particularly how the Trump era has impacted evangelical Christians' political alignments and the broader societal implications.

Peter articulates the deep divisions within the Christian community, driven by politics and cultural shifts. He highlights the problematic alignment of some evangelicals with Trump's ethos, which he argues has amplified negative traits such as resentment and grievance. The conversation also touches on Peter's recent article in The Atlantic, where he reflects on Christianity's relationship with power, emphasizing the faith's anti-power ethos exemplified by the crucifixion.

The dialogue covers significant historical moments that shaped the evangelical political landscape, the role of the media, and the challenges of maintaining faith integrity in a polarized political environment. Both hosts express appreciation for Peter's insights and the need for a more reflective and compassionate Christian witness in today's society.
Read the article mentioned in this conversation

THE GREATEST CONTRIBUTION OF CHRISTIANITY

Good Friday reminds us of the ephemerality of human power: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/03/easter-christianity-relationship-with-power/677921/
Guest Bio:
Peter Wehner is a contributing writer at The Atlantic and a senior fellow at the Trinity Forum. His books include The Death of Politics: How to Heal Our Frayed Republic After Trump, City of Man: Religion and Politics in a New Era, which he co-wrote with Michael J. Gerson, and Wealth and Justice: The Morality of Democratic Capitalism. He was formerly a speechwriter for George W. Bush and a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. Wehner is a contributing opinion

"The Faith Roundtable" is a captivating spinoff from the Faithful Politics podcast, dedicated to exploring the crucial issues facing the church in America today. Hosted by Josh Burtram, this podcast brings together faith leaders, theologians, and scholars for deep, respectful discussions on topics at the heart of American Christianity. From the intersection of faith and public life to urgent matters such as social justice and community engagement, each episode offers insightful conversations

Support the show

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [e-mail]
• Political Host: [e-mail]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/