Filmmaker Rob Reiner, appearing on MSNBC’s “The Beat,” shared his perspective on the role of former President Donald Trump within the Christian nationalist movement. Reiner characterized Trump as the “mouthpiece” for this movement, emphasizing that it transcends traditional political labels, describing it as neither right-wing nor left-wing but solely tied to Trump.
In Reiner’s view, there is concern within conservative Christian evangelical circles about the Christian nationalist movement, with fears extending beyond its impact on democracy to potential harm to Christianity itself. According to Reiner, the film he references in the interview delves into how this movement served as the foundation for the events of January 6, referring to it as the driving force behind the insurrection. He highlighted the presence of an avowed Christian nationalist as the Speaker of the House.
The filmmaker asserted that Trump willingly assumes the role of the movement’s mouthpiece, drawing a connection between him and the goals of the Christian nationalist movement. Reiner expressed apprehension about the nation sliding into autocracy, framing the current struggle as a choice between preserving democracy and descending into a theocratic autocracy. He claimed that the movement envisions a white Christian nation and alleged that it poses a threat not only to democracy but also to Christianity itself.
In conclusion, Reiner characterized the Christian nationalist movement as primarily a political pursuit of power rather than a genuine religious movement. He expressed concern that Trump serves as a potent spokesperson for this movement, suggesting an ambition to leverage it for another run at the White House.