How Donald Trump's Policies Contrast with Christian Values

I wrote this a few year's back and it does not take into consideration all the foolishness he has done during his second administration.

Introduction

Donald Trump's presidency and policies have sparked significant debate, particularly among Christian communities in the United States. While many of his supporters argue that his political stance aligns with Christian values, there is a substantial body of evidence that suggests otherwise. This article explores various policies and actions taken during Trump's presidency that challenge core Christian principles, examining the implications for faith-based communities and society at large.

1. Immigration Policies

One of the most contentious aspects of Trump's presidency has been his approach to immigration. Many Christian teachings emphasize compassion, hospitality, and care for the stranger—principles echoed in the Bible.

A. Family Separation Policy

The Trump administration's "zero-tolerance" immigration policy led to the separation of thousands of families at the U.S.-Mexico border, with children placed in detention facilities away from their parents.

- Biblical Concerns: In Matthew 25:35, Jesus teaches, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in." This policy contradicts the call for hospitality and care for those in vulnerable situations.

B. Travel Ban

Trump's travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries was perceived as discriminatory and contrary to Christian ideals of love and acceptance.

- Ethical Contradictions: Many Christian leaders and organizations condemned the ban, emphasizing that such policies undermine the Gospel's call for inclusivity. The National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. proclaimed, “We are called to love our neighbor, whoever they may be” (National Cathedral, 2017).

2. Rhetoric and Conduct

Trump's rhetoric often strayed from the principles of compassion, kindness, and humility championed by Christianity.

A. Hostile Language

Trump's frequent use of inflammatory language, including derogatory terms for opponents and marginalized groups, raises concerns among Christian leaders.

- Call to Compassion: Ephesians 4:29 states, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up." Trump’s often hostile rhetoric is out of alignment with this teaching.

B. Moral Leadership

Many Christians believe that leaders should exemplify moral integrity. Trump's personal conduct, including allegations of infidelity and his behavior on social media, has been criticized as inconsistent with Christian values.

- Integrity Matters: Proverbs 11:3 asserts, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them." Critics argue that Trump's behavior contradicts this essential principle of integrity.

3. Social Justice and Inequality

Trump's policies and approach toward social justice issues have also sparked division among Christians, particularly related to race and economic inequality.

A. Responses to Racial Injustice

The Trump administration's response to protests against racial injustice, particularly following the killing of George Floyd, raised questions about its alignment with Christian teachings on justice and equality.

- Calls for Justice: Micah 6:8 states, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Many Christians felt that Trump's responses failed to address the call for justice and compassion.

B. Economic Inequality

Trump's tax policies, particularly the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, disproportionately favored the wealthy, leading to growing economic inequality.

- Concern for the Poor: Proverbs 14:31 warns, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Critics argue that the economic benefits of the tax cuts did not trickle down to support lower-income families, conflicting with Christian values of social responsibility.

4. Environmental Stewardship

Environmentally, Trump's approach has been criticized as contrary to Christian values surrounding stewardship of creation.

A. Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement

Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement was met with condemnation from numerous faith-based organizations emphasizing the need for creation care.

- Christian Stewardship: Genesis 2:15 reminds believers that humanity is called to “cultivate and keep” the Earth. Many Christian groups argue that neglecting climate change undermines their responsibility to care for God’s creation.

B. Rollback of Environmental Protections

The Trump administration rolled back several essential environmental regulations, impacting air and water quality.

- Public Health Concerns: Many Christians argue that harming the environment threatens public health and disproportionately affects marginalized communities. The Evangelical Environmental Network stated, “Caring for God’s creation is a moral responsibility” (Evangelical Environmental Network, 2019).

5. Health Care Policies

Health care is another critical area where Trump's policies have raised concerns among Christians focused on the sanctity of life and compassion for the sick.

A. Efforts to Repeal the Affordable Care Act

Trump’s consistent push to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) threatened health coverage for millions of Americans, including vulnerable populations.

- Compassion for the Vulnerable: Matthew 25:36 speaks of visiting the sick. Christians involved in health care often see access as a moral imperative aligned with Jesus' teachings on caring for the least of these.

B. Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many critiques emerged about the administration's handling of the crisis, particularly around guidelines that sometimes appeared to prioritize economic recovery over public health.

- Valuing Life: Christian doctrine emphasizes the sanctity of life, and many argued that prioritizing economic gain over comprehensive public health measures was morally misguided.

Conclusion

The policies and rhetoric of Donald Trump’s presidency raise significant questions regarding alignment with core Christian values such as compassion, justice, and stewardship. While many individuals and groups may argue that his administration's actions align with certain aspects of conservative Christianity, a closer examination reveals notable contradictions.

For Christians seeking to navigate the complexities of faith in the public sphere, it is crucial to return to the teachings of Jesus and the principles found within the Scriptures. Engaging in discussions about morality, justice, and the welfare of all individuals is essential for fostering a society that reflects Christian values authentically.

References

1. Evangelical Environmental Network. (2019). “Caring for God’s Creation: A Call to Action.”

2. National Cathedral. (2017). “Statement on the Travel Ban.”

3. Pew Research Center. (2020). “The Political Landscape of American Christians.”

4. Southern Poverty Law Center. (2020). “The Rise of Hate in America.”

5. The Atlantic. (2021). “Trump’s Rhetoric: A Divisive Political Force.”