Following Donald Trump’s victory in the Iowa Caucuses, MSNBC host Joy Reid focused her discussion on the support he receives from White Christians.
This topic, which she had previously explored with Robert “Robbie” Jones, president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) and author of “The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy,” raises questions about the intersection of race, religion, and politics in the United States.
Analyzing demographic support for Trump
Reid, reflecting on her conversation with Jones, highlighted a significant demographic detail: Iowa’s population is about 61% White Christian, while the national average stands at approximately 41%.
This statistic led to a broader discussion about why this particular demographic supports Trump despite his past electoral losses.
Citing Jones’ insight, Reid read his response: “’They see themselves as the rightful inheritors of this country, and Trump has promised to give it back to them.’”
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Reid on electoral priorities: Divine ownership belief
Expanding on Jones’ analysis, Reid offered her interpretation to her co-hosts.
She explained, “All the things that we think about, about electability, about what are people gaming out, but none of that matters when you believe that God has given you this country, that it is yours, and that everyone who is not a White, conservative Christian is a fraudulent American, is a less real American.”
“Then you don’t care about electability. You care about what God has given you.”
Intersection of religion and nationalism
Later in the program, Reid emphasized the inseparable nature of this ideology from its religious roots. “It is religion,” she asserted.
In her view, this form of White evangelicalism has evolved into what she refers to as Christian nationalism.
She reiterated her point from the discussion with Jones, emphasizing the belief among “White evangelical Christians of a certain mindset” that they are the true owners of America.
According to Reid, this mindset delegitimizes other groups, including immigrants and people of different ethnicities and religions, as lesser Americans.
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Reid analyzes belief in ownership of country
Reid’s commentary delved deeper into the mindset of this demographic, suggesting a sense of ownership over the country.
“They’re not trying to convince people and win people over through politics. What they’re saying is, ‘We own this country, and everyone will bow down to us.’”
This statement encapsulates her perspective on the driving force behind this group’s unwavering support for Trump.
Implications for American politics and society
Reid’s analysis on MSNBC brings to the forefront a critical issue in American politics: the role of identity and belief in shaping political allegiances.
Her conversation with Jones and subsequent commentary aim to unravel the complex motivations behind the steadfast support Trump receives from a significant portion of the White Christian demographic.
Joy Reid’s discussion post-Iowa Caucuses sheds light on the intertwining of religious beliefs, racial identity, and political leanings.
Insights into voter behavior among white evangelical Christians
Her insights offer a deeper understanding of the dynamics in American politics, particularly among White evangelical Christians who continue to support Trump.
As the political landscape in the United States continues to evolve, these considerations remain crucial in understanding voter behavior and the shaping of future electoral strategies.
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