During a recent segment on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” a panel spent over eight minutes discussing prayers at rallies held by former President Donald Trump. This comes after an article published in The Atlantic by staff writer McKay Coppins, which claimed that the prayers at Trump’s rallies had not received enough “journalistic attention.” Coppins and MSNBC contributor Jen Palmieri engaged in a conversation about the prayers, with Palmieri characterizing them as “apocalyptic.”
Coppins expressed concern that these prayers could be sowing “seeds of conspiracy theories” in the minds of Trump supporters. He argued that if one believes the election is a battle between good and evil and that God is on their side, then a loss for Trump could lead to beliefs of “something amiss” and fuel election denialism. This notion was further criticized by Democrats, such as strategist James Carville, who have mocked the belief in divine intervention during an assassination attempt on Trump.
But what Coppins and others fail to recognize is the true significance of these prayers. They are not just words uttered at a rally, but meaningful and powerful expressions of faith and hope. These prayers are a reflection of the deep religious beliefs held by many Americans, including Trump supporters, who see him as a champion of their values and beliefs.
Moreover, these prayers are not just about the 2024 election, as Coppins suggests. They are a reminder of the role of faith in shaping our political landscape. The idea of divine intervention in politics may seem strange to some, but for many Americans, it is a deeply held belief. And to dismiss or mock it is to disregard the importance of religious freedom and expression in our country.
Coppins also expresses concern about what would happen if Trump were to win the 2024 election. He quotes a pastor who promises “righteous retribution” against those who seek to do evil if Trump is reelected. This, Coppins argues, is a dangerous mindset to have as it could lead to extreme actions based on a belief in divine mandate. But again, this is a misinterpretation of the prayers. They are not inciting violence or encouraging retribution, but rather an expression of faith in God and trust in his plan.
Furthermore, Trump supporters do not see a win for him as just an electoral mandate, but as a validation of their beliefs and values. It is a win for the American people who have been ignored and marginalized by the political elite. Trump’s America First agenda resonates with these supporters, who see him as a leader who will fight for their interests and protect their freedoms.
'Apocalyptic': MSNBC Panel Dedicates Segment To Analyzing Prayers At Trump Rallies pic.twitter.com/Apb3ijNAsE
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) July 29, 2024
The prayers at Trump’s rallies are not “apocalyptic,” nor do they plant “seeds of conspiracy theories.” They are a meaningful expression of faith and hope, a reminder of the role of religion in our democracy, and a testament to the strong support for Trump among religious Americans.
Instead of criticizing and dismissing these prayers, we should embrace the diversity of beliefs in our country and respect the values and faith of all Americans, including Trump supporters.