274. TNE TALKS: Fighting Christian Nationalism with Rep James Talarico

Summary In this conversation, Representative James Talarico and Tim Whitaker discuss topics such as Christian nationalism, faith, and navigating political differences. Talarico shares his background growing up in a conservative Christian home but attending a church that emphasized love for all people. He explains how his faith has informed his political views and motivated him to run for office. The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining a spiritual foundation in politics, finding common ground with ideological opponents, and the challenges of addressing issues like Christian nationalism. In this conversation, Tim Whitaker and James Talarico discuss the importance of engaging in conversations to advocate for marginalized communities, the need for affordable healthcare and paid family leave, the role of right-wing media in spreading misinformation and fear, the threat of Christian nationalism, and the actions individuals can take to make a difference. Takeaways Growing up in a conservative Christian home, Representative James Talarico attended a church that emphasized love for all people, regardless of race, class, gender, or sexual orientation. Talarico's faith has informed his political views and motivated him to run for office, with a focus on dismantling unjust systems and advocating for the well-being of all constituents. Maintaining a spiritual foundation is crucial in navigating the challenges of politics, helping to control emotions and channel anger into productive and loving actions. Finding common ground with ideological opponents is possible through personal connections and shared values, even while maintaining clear policy differences. Addressing issues like Christian nationalism requires resisting harmful ideas and systems while avoiding personal attacks, focusing on the moral contrast and expanding the circle of concern for all people. Engaging in conversations and advocating for marginalized communities is crucial, as it relieves the burden on those directly affected by discriminatory policies. Affordable healthcare and paid family leave are not radical ideas, but necessary measures to support families and ensure their well-being. Right-wing media plays a significant role in spreading misinformation and fear, often prioritizing profit over truth. Christian nationalism poses a threat to democracy and the values of equality and justice. Individuals can make a difference by staying informed, supporting organizations working for change, and actively participating in the democratic process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 09:29 Understanding Christian Nationalism 16:08 The Role of Faith in Politics 24:27 Addressing Christian Nationalism and Expanding the Circle of Concern 26:51 Affordable Healthcare and Paid Family Leave 29:33 Finding Common Ground 33:11 The Influence of Right-Wing Media 36:06 The Threat of Christian Nationalism 45:57 Taking Action for Change Jame's Website James on Twitter James on TikTok if you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here! Get Tickets to Beer Camp (PROMO: TNEHOBBIT) Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center. We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices