CNN continues to navigate through treacherous waters as it disregards substantial segments of the American populace. The network’s audience has dwindled significantly since the era of President Donald Trump’s first term, during which it heavily promoted narratives like “Russia collusion.” What’s clear is that rather than rebuilding bridges, CNN has shifted its focus towards antagonizing not just supporters of Trump, but Christians who actively engage in political discourse.
Figures highlight this stark decline in viewership. During the 2016 presidential campaign, CNN enjoyed an average of 1.3 million viewers in prime time. After some initial years of Trump’s presidency, that number settled around 1 million. Now, it has plummeted to just 573,000. This downward spiral underscores a disconnect with mainstream America, further demonstrated by the network’s decision to air a documentary that casts suspicion on Christian nationalists—a demographic that has increasingly rallied around their faith in recent years.
The planned documentary appears to be less an exploration and more an indictment, characterized by one-sided viewpoints and a sensational approach. CNN host Pamela Brown has even suggested that this film will examine the supposed harmful influence of Christian nationalists, framing the assassination of Charlie Kirk not merely as an event but as a catalyst that supposedly unites this movement. The portrayal aims to amplify fears among viewers by narrowing in on the narrative that these religious individuals pose a threat to national integrity.
The designated “expert” for this project is Matthew Taylor, a figure known for his critical stance toward Christian nationalism. In promoting the documentary, Taylor stated, “Christian nationalism is an ideology rooted in the belief that our country was founded as a Christian nation.” This description has been dismissed by many who argue that it misrepresents the deep roots of Christianity in American history and governance.
America’s historical documents reflect a rich tapestry of religious influence. From the Declaration of Independence referencing divine authority to George Washington acknowledging the guiding hand of God in his inaugural address, the link between Christianity and American values is profound. Abraham Lincoln, too, invoked a divine presence in his Gettysburg Address, suggesting a nation consecrated under God. Furthermore, the move to add “under God” to the Pledge of Allegiance highlights the enduring connection between faith and national identity.
Past leaders like Presidents Eisenhower and Truman emphasized the foundational role of religious principles in American law and governance. Truman notably pointed out that moral frameworks derived from religious teachings underpinned the rights afforded to citizens. His assertion that without such a moral background, totalitarianism could prevail resonates today as society grapples with encroaching secularism.
Additionally, the Ten Commandments illustrate core ethical principles that have seamlessly woven their way through American legal frameworks. Commands against murder and theft mirror the rights enshrined in the Constitution’s Bill of Rights. Such truths challenge the narrative CNN attempts to craft.
Pamela Brown’s closing remarks about Taylor’s view that Christian nationalism is in a position of unprecedented influence suggest heightened alarmism rather than an objective analysis. CNN’s portrayal leads to an oversimplified and dangerous narrative that misrepresents an essential part of American heritage.
The growing prominence of Christianity within the culture, as noted by a recent Barna Group survey, paints a different picture than the one that CNN seeks to promote. A significant 66 percent of U.S. adults indicating a commitment to Jesus signifies not a threat but a potential source of communal strength and renewal.
Rather than fueling division, this evolving landscape should prompt more dialogue. CNN’s approach paints a bleak picture of faith-driven political engagement that diverges from America’s founding principles. In the spirit of fostering understanding, one might suggest that network executives take heed of the broader implications—the fabric of American society is intricately tied to its spiritual roots, and denigrating these voices could have lasting repercussions. Someone ought to share this insight with CNN.
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