Christian Nationalism Drives Laws, Education, Political Influence Across US States

Christian nationalism has become a prominent and influential force in the United States, especially under President Trump’s second administration, which has enacted policies perceived as driven by white Christian nationalist ideology, including aggressive immigration enforcement and opposition to diversity programs. This ideology asserts that the U.S. is fundamentally a Christian nation, a claim that contradicts the Constitution’s clear mandate for separation of church and state and religious freedom. Several states have passed laws promoting Christian symbols and influence in public schools, reflecting efforts by organized groups like Project Blitz to embed Christian nationalist principles in public institutions. The movement is rooted historically in evangelical activism that began in the early 20th century and has evolved into a powerful political apparatus that shapes debates on social and cultural issues. A specific strand of Christian nationalism, known as the Seven Mountains Mandate, seeks to assert control over key societal sectors such as business, education, and media, illustrated by the recent scandal involving First Liberty Building & Loan in Georgia, a financial institution tied to conservative Christian political movements. These developments highlight the increasing entanglement of religious nationalism with political, social, and economic spheres in contemporary America.