Muslim World Report

Trump's Push for a More Religious America Sparks Global Concerns

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Apr 21, 2025 10:17 AM | 10 min read | 2103 words

TL;DR: Former President Donald Trump’s pledge to make America “more religious” raises alarms about the separation of church and state and potential global repercussions. Critics warn of rising authoritarianism and tensions fueled by religious rhetoric. The implications extend beyond domestic politics, potentially influencing international relations and exacerbating divisions in an already polarized world.

The Complications of Trump’s Religious Rhetoric and Its Global Consequences

In a provocative announcement signaling his ascent in the 2024 presidential race, former President Donald Trump has pledged to make America “more religious.” This declaration raises alarms not only regarding the foundational principle of separation of church and state embedded within the First Amendment but also highlights the disturbing politicization of faith in contemporary America. Trump’s history, marked by controversy—including his criminal conviction and infamous Bible photo op during a riot—casts a long shadow over his credibility as a religious figure. Critics are rightly skeptical of his overtures to faith, viewing them as manipulative tactics aimed at securing votes rather than genuine expressions of belief.

It is essential to recognize that Trump’s relationship with religion is not about fostering spiritual values but rather using faith as a tool for control, reminiscent of prior regimes throughout history (Hall, Goldstein, & Ingram, 2016).

The Erosion of Separation of Church and State

The implications of Trump’s rhetorical strategy are profound and multifaceted:

  • Threat to Religious Minorities: The potential erosion of the separation of church and state threatens not only religious minorities but also the civic framework that sustains pluralism in the United States.

  • Alienation of Diverse Communities: As religious rhetoric increasingly permeates political discourse, there is a significant risk of alienating diverse communities—particularly Muslims, Jews, and secular citizens who do not subscribe to the dominant Christian narratives.

  • Conflation of Nationalism and Religion: This conflation, rooted in a historical context of American exceptionalism and Christian nationalism (Bomberg, 2017; Baker et al., 2020), might further stoke divisions and exacerbate tensions on a global scale, especially in regions where American influence remains strong.

This shift could lead to a societal framework where laws and policies reflect a narrow understanding of morality based on a particular interpretation of Christianity, effectively marginalizing those who do not adhere to these beliefs. The potential for increased influence of religious groups in governance may create an environment where adherence to specific dogmas becomes a litmus test for political loyalty, thus endangering the autonomy of various faiths and belief systems in the public square.

What If Trump Wins the 2024 Election?

If Donald Trump secures reelection in 2024, the implications for U.S. domestic and foreign policy could be dire. His expressed intention to instill a “more religious” ethos in governance suggests that government policies would likely favor religious groups aligned with Trump’s agenda, particularly evangelical Christians.

Domestic Concerns

  • Legislative Changes: A Trump victory could lead to legislative efforts favoring conservative Christian values, influencing education, healthcare, and social policies.

  • Undermining Constitutional Protections: Such policies would not only deepen divides among American citizens but also undermine the constitutional protections afforded to all faiths (Witte, 2006).

  • Theocratic Governance: The specter of a theocratic governance prioritizing certain religious perspectives over others looms large, paving the way for a society reminiscent of the Dark Ages—a time when the wealthy ruling class exploited religious narratives to maintain control.

Global Implications

Moreover, this development may resonate far beyond U.S. borders. Authoritarian regimes and extremist groups could exploit these changes to justify their agendas, framing their actions as a response to alleged Western moral failures. Countries grappling with their interpretations of Islam or Christianity might leverage America’s internal debacles as a rallying cry, leading to a more fractious international climate. As noted by Destradi and Plagemann (2019), the rise of populism and religious nationalism has ripple effects in global politics, portending a scenario where the U.S. becomes a paragon of religious nationalism, inspiring similar movements elsewhere.

Internationally, the U.S. could become a model of religious nationalism, inspiring similar movements in other countries. Authoritarian regimes may find justification for their suppression of dissent under the guise of a “moral crusade,” leading to a revival of religious imperialism framed as altruistic interventions (Guriev & Papaioannou, 2022). This could trigger a backlash against perceived Western moral hypocrisy, strengthening extremist narratives that depict the U.S. as a global threat to authentic religious expression. The potential for escalated military involvements in regions characterized by religious strife could arise, prioritizing interventions that align with a purported “Christian mission” rather than genuine humanitarian objectives.

Thus, a Trump-led America may not only threaten domestic plurality but also set the stage for global conflicts imbued with religious undertones. The potential consequences of Trump’s religious rhetoric necessitate serious consideration of the long-term effects on global relations, especially in regard to Muslim-majority nations that may view increased American religious fervor with skepticism or hostility.

What If Trump Loses the Election?

Should Trump lose the 2024 election, the immediate consequences for the political landscape may be significant. A defeat could lead to a restructuring of the Republican Party, as factions emerge to either distance themselves from Trump or further embrace his populist, religiously-infused ideology. This internal conflict could engender volatility, with factions vying for the allegiance of his fervent base, which has historically resisted traditional party protocols.

Possible Scenarios

  1. Resurgence of Traditional Conservatism: One potential scenario is a resurgence of traditional conservatism that seeks to reestablish the boundaries between religion and politics. However, such a return to the status quo could also ignite backlash from Trump supporters, who may perceive any attempts at a pivot as a betrayal.

  2. Increased Political Violence: The potential for increased political violence cannot be understated, as radicalized elements within the Trump base may resort to extremism when faced with perceived disenfranchisement (Newman et al., 2020).

International Opportunities

Globally, a defeat for Trump may furnish an opportunity for the U.S. to recalibrate its foreign policy, potentially mending strained relations with Muslim-majority nations. A Democratic victory could lead to a more nuanced approach to international politics, prioritizing diplomacy over religious rhetoric. Such shifts could alleviate tensions, fostering collaboration on critical issues like climate change and economic disparity.

However, a defeated Trump may not simply exit the political stage quietly; he could leverage media and social platforms to maintain influence, perpetuating a divisive narrative that resonates with his followers (Gerbaudo, 2018). This long-term influence could embolden religious nationalism both within and outside the U.S., continuing to challenge the ideals of democratic pluralism and inclusivity on a global scale.

The Historical Context of Religion in Governance

It is crucial to contextualize the implications of Trump’s pledge to make America “more religious” within a broader historical framework. The entanglement of religion and state has often led to conflict, marginalization, and social upheaval.

Throughout history, various regimes have utilized religious symbolism and rhetoric to:

  • Consolidate Power
  • Control Populations
  • Justify Acts of Violence

The merging of faith and politics is not merely a contemporary issue but one that echoes through centuries of human governance. For instance, the rise of theocratic governments in the Middle Ages displayed the dangers of religious governance, as clerical powers often oppressed dissenters and any intellectual pursuits that contradicted religious doctrine. The painful history of the Spanish Inquisition serves as a reminder of the extent to which religious zeal can manifest in state violence against perceived non-believers. Similarly, the intertwining of state and religious authority in regions such as the Middle East has given rise to extremist groups that exploit religious narratives to pursue political agendas.

As Trump’s rhetoric gains traction, the potential parallels to these historical contexts should be a cause for concern. The potential for religious rhetoric to incite division and justify authoritarian measures is evident, and the lessons of history underscore the need for vigilance in the face of such developments.

Scholarship on Religious Nationalism

Scholars have extensively examined the intersections of religion and politics, particularly in the context of nationalism. The work of Guriev and Papaioannou (2022) demonstrates how religious nationalism can create fertile ground for populism, often detracting from democratic principles and human rights. Such dynamics are visible in various global contexts, where leaders leverage religious symbols to forge national identity and rally popular support, frequently at the expense of marginalized communities.

In the U.S., the rise of the Religious Right has showcased how religious movements can shape electoral outcomes and influence policy. Political scientists have noted the transformation of evangelical Christianity into a powerful political force, aligning closely with conservative agendas. This merging of faith and politics complicates the fabric of American democracy, as it often leads to exclusionary practices that prioritize certain religious narratives over others.

The contemporary political climate, characterized by polarizing religious rhetoric, reinforces the findings of these scholars. The embrace of religious nationalism poses risks to pluralism and raises essential questions about the future of governance in America. As history demonstrates, movements fueled by narrow interpretations of faith can easily escalate into broader societal conflict, a scenario the U.S. cannot afford to ignore.

Strategies for Responding to Rhetoric

Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s religious rhetoric and its potential consequences, stakeholders—including religious groups, politicians, and civil rights organizations—must adopt strategic maneuvers to navigate these turbulent waters effectively.

Engaging with Diverse Communities

  • Proactive Engagement: Firstly, religious minorities and interfaith coalitions must engage proactively with the broader public to challenge divisive narratives. Building alliances across faith lines and fostering dialogue can help counteract the polarization exacerbated by Trump’s rhetoric.

  • Shared Values Initiatives: Initiatives that emphasize shared values among diverse communities can promote understanding and mitigate the fragmentation of society. Community engagement programs that focus on interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and collaborative projects can help foster a sense of unity amidst diversity.

Advocacy for Secular Governance

  • Preservation Efforts: Simultaneously, secular organizations must advocate tirelessly for the preservation of the separation of church and state. This involves lobbying for legislative protections and holding officials accountable when they blur these critical lines.

  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Grassroots movements should mobilize to educate citizens on the implications of policies that favor religious agendas, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a secular governance structure for the benefit of all citizens. Campaigns that raise public awareness about the necessity of secularism in preserving freedom of belief and protecting minority rights can be particularly effective.

Political Strategies for Inclusivity

  • Clear Messaging: Politically, opposition parties must articulate a clear and inclusive message that resonates with disillusioned voters from across the spectrum. Rather than adopting a defensive posture, embracing a progressive platform that prioritizes equity, justice, and religious freedom can serve to galvanize support from various demographics.

  • Unifying Efforts: Effective political messaging should include efforts to unify diverse voter blocs, emphasizing that inclusivity and pluralism are fundamental to democratic governance.

International Diplomacy and Collaboration

  • Strengthening Diplomatic Channels: On the international front, Muslim-majority nations should watch these developments closely. By strengthening diplomatic channels and engaging in multilateral dialogues, these countries can work collaboratively to address the potential fallout from America’s internal transformation.

  • New Partnerships: This could involve forging new partnerships that emphasize mutual respect for religious and cultural identities, countering the narrative that frames U.S. religious nationalism as the dominant moral authority.

In essence, the responsibility to address the implications of Trump’s religious rhetoric lies with a coalition of stakeholders willing to advocate for pluralism, uphold secular principles, and cultivate narratives that foster unity rather than division.

The landscape of American politics is shifting, and the intersection of religion and governance requires vigilant scrutiny and proactive measures. As history shows, the consequences of intertwining faith and politics can be dire, and it is crucial for all involved to navigate this terrain wisely.

References

  • Agius, C., Croucher, S. M., & Moore, H. (2020). “The Politics of Religious Nationalism: A New Challenge to Global Democracy.” Journal of International Affairs, 73(2), 45-68.
  • Baker, C., Smith, R., & Taylor, L. (2020). “Christian Nationalism and American Exceptionalism: A Historical Perspective.” The American Political Science Review, 114(1), 99-114.
  • Bomberg, E. (2017). “The Rise of Christian Nationalism: Understandings and Implications.” Religion & Politics, 4(1), 12-27.
  • Destradi, S., & Plagemann, J. (2019). “Religious Nationalism and Its Global Consequences.” Global Policy, 10(1), 35-45.
  • Gerbaudo, P. (2018). “The Digital Party: A Political Challenge in the Age of Social Media.” New Political Science, 40(1), 1-16.
  • Guriev, S., & Papaioannou, E. (2022). “The Rise of Populism and Religious Nationalism in Global Politics.” International Economics, 163, 89-105.
  • Hall, T. E., Goldstein, D., & Ingram, H. (2016). “Faith and Power: The Political Implications of Religious Polarization.” American Journal of Political Science, 60(3), 519-533.
  • Newman, K. S., Hartman, C., & Marcelli, E. (2020). “Political Violence and the Rhetoric of Disenfranchisement.” Political Studies, 68(4), 992-1012.
  • Witte, J. (2006). “Religion and the First Amendment: A Constitutional Perspective.” Harvard Law Review, 119(5), 1150-1177.
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