Democrats in the 2026 midterms aggressively campaigned against what they called ‘Christian nationalism,’ warning that conservative religious influence threatened democracy. Yet critics now accuse them of practicing their own version of faith-driven politics while condemning the same approach from Republicans.
Democrats Decry ‘Christian Nationalism’
Texas Democrat James Talarico, now senator-elect, framed Christian nationalism as ‘the worship of power β social power, economic power, political power β in the name of Christ.’ Arkansas Democrat Robb Ryerse, who lost his House bid, called it ‘one of the most dangerous things to our democracy.’ California Rep. Jared Huffman went further, claiming hardcore Christian nationalists ‘want a full-blown theocracy.’
Faith-Based Campaigning on the Left
Despite these warnings, Democratic candidates frequently invoked Christianity to justify policy positions. Talarico said his faith led him to ‘recommit myself to the project of a multiracial, multicultural democracy.’ Kansas Senator-elect Adam Hamilton tied progressive economic policies to Christian morality, while Iowa Rep.-elect Sarah Trone Garriott described her political work as an extension of pastoral ministry.
Media Notes the Shift
Mainstream outlets noted the trend. NPR reported Democrats made Christianity a ‘centerpiece’ of midterm campaigns, while the Washington Post declared ‘progressive Christianity is making a comeback’ against Trump-aligned conservatives. This marks a reversal from 2004, when then-Sen. Barack Obama warned against ‘religious certainty’ in politics.
Hypocrisy Allegations
Critics argue Democrats apply a double standard β branding conservative religious influence as dangerous while portraying their own faith-based politics as morally righteous. The article notes progressive Christianity’s embrace of abortion rights, LGBTQ+ issues, and transgender policies as particularly contentious, with some theologians calling it a ‘false gospel.’
Source: thefederalist.com β https://thefederalist.com/2026/11/11/democrats-its-only-christian-nationalism-when-conservatives-do-it/