Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump is clearly not one to miss an opportunity, especially when it comes to courting the evangelical vote in the lead-up to the 2024 election. Trump is making it abundantly clear that his road back to the White House has a southern route, filled with church leaders and God-fearing supporters. Over the last few days, Trump has taken his campaign through Georgia and North Carolina, and he isn’t stopping anytime soon—Florida is next on his list.
The rally in Concord, North Carolina showcased an impressive roster of religious leaders, including the well-known Franklin Graham. The self-proclaimed champion of faith rallied attendees around the idea that Christians hold the key to the election’s fate, and it’s hard to argue with that logic when considering the historical influence of religious voters in Republican circles. Of course, true to form, Trump leaped right into the deep end of faith discussions, employing his trademark style that blends sincerity with a touch of humor, while also highlighting the impending doom should his opponent, Kamala Harris, win.
Trump courts Christian vote and says ‘God saved me for a purpose’ https://t.co/qJRDtWapi9
— Guardian US (@GuardianUS) October 22, 2024
Peter Navarro, the former trade ambassador, stirred the pot, suggesting that a Harris administration would bring suffering not only to the nation but to devout Christians everywhere. Meanwhile, Dr. Ben Carson invoked heavy themes, claiming this election could steer America toward being a “secular nation” or reaffirm its status as “one nation under God.” For those keeping score, that’s three points for faith and a direct challenge to secular humanism, whatever that may be.
Trump clearly enjoys the spotlight, using a live rendition of “God Bless the U.S.A.” as the perfect backdrop to affirm his Christian credentials. At one point, he humorously revealed his admiration for “amazing” preachers from his childhood—though he noted he may not have grasped every theological nugget tossed his way. It seems his faith reflections were also mixed with a bit of self-deprecating humor, a sure sign he’s comfortable with his audience, even if a few souls wandered out midway through his speech.
His jab at Harris was particularly striking, as he accused her of being a menace to Christianity. The crowd couldn’t contain themselves, erupting into chants of “Jesus! Jesus!”—a clear indication that the former president knows how to connect with his base. He then wrapped things up with a call to action for Christians to rally on November 5, evoking an image of an army of believers ready to take back their country from the clutches of what he claims to be a destructive secular force.
As the clock winds down to the election, Trump appears laser-focused on North Carolina—a state he barely won in 2020. Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley has already noted the importance of this battleground state, asserting it could make or break the election. With early voting already hitting record numbers, the GOP is buzzing with anticipation, poised to either cling to their previous victory or succumb to renewed Democratic enthusiasm. One thing’s for sure; Trump’s Southern charm and evangelical outreach are shaping up to be pivotal factors in the upcoming showdown.
