By Association

I had the notion that Trump's shadier associations would be one more reason for evangelicals to distance themselves from him. While this may be true for some white evangelicals, most, including some of the most prominent, have consistently increased their support.

Trump has a long history of chumming up with ne'er-do-wells and criminals. Never mind the mafia connections from years gone by, several of his closest associates were convicted as a result of an investigation into shady connections with Russian propagandists. But few on the white religious right have complained or found cause for concern.

Perhaps I have been blind to a darker reality: are evangelicals who choose to associate with Trump simply another group given to cheating? Is the attraction to him less a means to an end than a natural affinity? Is permission to be cruel what they long for? Do they revel in the lies, fear, and repression?

This wouldn't be new. Of all the people Jesus could have chosen to criticize, it was mainly the pious and principled religious leaders that he condemned. In retaliation, they allied themselves with a brutal political leader to silence the rebel.

People who intend to speak for God in justifying their privilege and excluding the down-and-out, or who, like Job's friends, blame victims for their afflictions do not make God smile. Leaders of such groups rally otherwise good people by appealing to their baser instincts (which we all have). The devout become villains. But so willingly?

It seems many evangelicals don't just tolerate Trump's bad behavior; they embrace and own it. They cheer him on and emulate his behavior. Exclusivity and bigotry appear to be essential to their political leanings. They are willing and enthusiastic associates. If even any of their own so much as argues that detained children should be allowed toothbrushes, the president of an evangelical university will publicly sneer at their credentials, forbidding any criticism of the perceived party line.

Perhaps we owe Trump thanks for this favor: he has shined a light on our dirtiness. He spread his BS on the evangelical fields, and a bumper crop of our weedy selves responded, choking out better impulses. Seeing ourselves for who we really are could be a first step toward redemption. If only we look in the mirror.

In 2020, the polls may prove that white evangelicals could stomach the lies and cruelty for only four years. I suspect, though, that a majority will fail the test and soil the church again. How many people will decide they have had enough of the stench and leave the church? How many already have? What does this church look like to those outside it?