Donald Trump exploits evangelical Christians' anxieties

Trump’s 2016 campaign ran on a platform of bringing back lost American and Christian values. He argued that the Democratic Party was failing to uphold these ideals, presenting himself as the last line of defence against liberal views and policies. This has not changed in his 2020 bid for re-election. A strong rhetoric of protecting the American people from threats within and outside the nation’s borders. That is what evangelicals hear from Trump’s speeches. The inaugural speech often serves American presidents to provide hope and many showcase a positive outlook for their term in office. Trump did neither. In 2016, Trump’s inauguration speech brought to mind an almost apocalyptic view of America which he sought to shield his supporters from. He presented a flawed view of America and presented himself as a political outsider with the answers to these problems^[1]. This resonated with evangelical Christians. Many feel attacked by progressive views and policies. To them, the main cause for concern is the erosion of American values which they see through increased access to abortion and contraceptives, increased support for the LGBTQ+ community. These policy changes and progressive discourse poses a threat to their way of life and culture. With Trump validating these concerns and presenting himself as an alternative, he has effectively used the fears of the evangelical community to further his political agenda and increase his base ^[2]

[P1] Evangelical Christians feel the progressive changes in the nation are leading to an abandonment of traditional and family values. [P2] Evangelicals fear these changes. [P3] Trump confirms these fears and presents himself as the only solution. [P4] Trump uses evangelicals' fears to increase his support.