What Is the Faithful Response to Rising Authoritarianism?

New York Times columnist and “founding friend” David French joins host Curtis Chang to explore the shifting dynamics of American governance under the Trump administration. They explore the growing concentration of executive power and the MAGA-driven erosion of the checks and balances envisioned by the Founders. Curtis and David also discuss the weakening influence of both the legislative and judicial branches, while reflecting on the crucial role of strong family ties, community, and inspired worship for Christians confronting rising authoritarianism.

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Read David’s column: The Trump Crisis Deepens: The president is using every tool at his disposal to reshape the American founding

Resources or references mentioned in this episode:

• What is DOGE?
• Limiting DOGE’s access and reach
• 1787 Constitution
• I Kings 19:9-18 (Elijah and God’s promise to spare those who do not bend knee to Baal)
• The executive branch taking power from the legislative branch
• Carl Scmidt’s Friend-Enemy Distinction
• Media and allies fear Kash Patel’s retribution
• Pew Research: How the faithful voted
• The psychology of Trumpism identity fusion
• Can the Insurrection Act be used on American soil?
• Trump supporters trust him more than family & friends
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964
• Praising God is an act of political defiance
• Worship and the Civil Rights Movement

Explore The After Party with Russell Moore, David French, & Curtis Chang

More From David French:

• Read David French’s opinion pieces HERE
• Follow David French on Threads

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