This year, with the upcoming presidential election, emotions are running higher than ever. If you’re like me, you’re probably bracing for those inevitable heated discussions at family gatherings or scrolling through social media posts that strain the boundaries of logic and reason.
But here’s the good news: we stand on the side of truth. In John 8:31-32, Jesus tells us,
“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” This is more than a comforting verse—it’s a charge to live out the truth of the Gospel. The way we speak, serve, and yes, even how we vote, reflects our commitment to this truth.
As Christians, we are called to uphold what is good and stand against what is evil. No
election in our lifetime has so starkly drawn this line as the one before us. It’s crucial to be
equipped with clear talking points when political discussions arise. My goal is to help you
navigate these conversations with clarity and conviction. When propaganda and misinformation swirl around you, you’ll know how to respond…grounded in truth, love, and righteousness.
“Aren’t you a Christian? Why would you vote for someone like Trump?”
The distinction is simple: During first term as President Trump wasn’t our pastor-in-chief, but he was an effective commander-in-chief. As Christians, we don’t vote for a spiritual leader; we vote for someone who upholds the values that matter to us. Trump’s policies —his defense of religious freedom, pro-life stance, and strong support for law enforcement —reflect those values.
Regardless of personal feelings about Trump, it’s hard to ignore his staunch opposition to
progressive ideologies that often contradict Christian principles. His appointment of conservative judges, reduction of government overreach, and defense of individual freedoms, including the Second Amendment, are all in line with the foundational values of faith, liberty, and personal responsibility. These are not just political issues; they are core beliefs shaping our lives, work, and interactions within society.
“What about Trump’s language? He’s crass and says terrible things.”
It’s true that Trump’s bluntness was often jarring. But his no-nonsense approach cut
through political games and achieved results. While his words could be harsh, they often
conveyed a necessary strength.
Take, for instance, his dealings with the Taliban. Trump’s tough stance, including
personal threats to Taliban leaders, resulted in relative peace during his administration.
Similarly, his assertive rhetoric toward North Korea opened the door to historic diplomatic talks, making him the first U.S. president to meet with a North Korean leader.
His boldness wasn’t limited to foreign policy. Domestically, Trump took a firm stance
against China’s unfair trade practices, imposed tariffs to protect American workers, and
pressured NATO allies to contribute their fair share. These actions, while controversial,
reinforced America’s position globally and strengthened alliances.
Trump’s leadership was about results, not polished rhetoric. His directness might have
been unsettling, but it often got things done. In the end, effective leadership is measured by actions, not words.
“Trump is a horrible candidate.”
But what truly makes him a horrible candidate? Many criticisms of Trump stem from
media narratives rather than an honest assessment of his presidency.
Look closely at his record, and his accomplishments are undeniable. He boldly defended
Christian values, protected religious freedom, and fostered one of the strongest economies in recent history. His policies of deregulation and tax cuts stimulated unprecedented job growth, benefiting Americans across the board.
On national security, Trump’s strategy effectively decimated ISIS, and his military
decisions, such as the elimination of Iranian General Soleimani, protected American interests. His judicial appointments have set a lasting precedent, ensuring balance in the courts for generations.
Operation Warp Speed, which fast-tracked COVID-19 vaccine development, saved
countless lives and was pivotal in the global pandemic response. These achievements, often
ignored or downplayed by the media, showcase a presidency focused on action.
“Trump is a danger to democracy. Isn’t he like Hitler?”
The media controls much of the narrative surrounding Trump, consistently portraying him
in a negative light. Headlines skew the truth, and important facts are often omitted. This
manipulation of information is far more dangerous to democracy than Trump’s directness ever was.
Comparing Trump to Hitler is not only factually incorrect but diminishes the horrors of
fascism and genocide. Trump was democratically elected, operated within constitutional limits, and respected the electoral process. Hitler was a dictator who seized absolute power,
suppressed dissent, and orchestrated mass genocide. Drawing this false equivalence
undermines meaningful conversation and erodes our understanding of history.
In fact, Trump’s presidency demonstrated a commitment to democracy, with regular legal
challenges and checks on his power. Labeling him a dictator is an oversimplification of both his leadership and the complexities of our democratic system.
Conclusion: Standing Firm in Truth
As we navigate these polarizing times, it’s important to recognize that much of the
criticism directed at Trump is rooted in media bias and exaggeration. His presidency wasn’t
about smooth words or political correctness—it was about defending religious freedom, securing national interests, and strengthening the economy.
As Christians, we are called to stand firm in truth. Let’s not be swayed by the noise and
misinformation. Instead, let’s engage in honest, fact-based discussions, grounded in our faith and committed to upholding the values that matter most.
– Chad Forte, Botetourt Co.