Will Christians stop supporting Trump?
Mary Trump, the niece of former President Donald Trump, has urged her uncle’s Christian supporters to reconsider their allegiance after his controversial remarks following his conviction in a Manhattan criminal trial.
On May 30, Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records. During a post-verdict press conference, he criticized New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan, claiming the defense’s witnesses were harshly treated by the judge. Trump described Merchan as “a devil disguised as an angel.”
In a video posted on TikTok, Mary Trump responded to these remarks. She questioned whether her uncle’s comments were close to blasphemy, stating, “I’m not Christian, so I can’t be certain, but isn’t that maybe skating very close to crossing the line of blasphemy?”
Mary Trump also highlighted other controversial statements made by her uncle during the trial. On the eve of the jury’s decision, Donald Trump told reporters, “Given the judge’s clear bias and corruption, even Mother Teresa couldn’t beat these charges.”
In her TikTok video, Mary Trump addressed Trump’s Christian supporters directly, saying, “Just my advice, maybe you white Christians who keep throwing your support behind a man who knows nothing about and does not follow the teachings of your savior should start rethinking your life choices.”
The former president’s trial stemmed from accusations that he orchestrated a hush-money payment to former adult film star Stormy Daniels during his 2016 presidential campaign. Despite his conviction, Trump, the leading Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential race, continues to deny any wrongdoing and plans to appeal the verdict. Newsweek has reached out to Trump’s spokesperson for comment.
White evangelical Christians played a significant role in Trump’s victories in the 2016 and 2020 elections. They supported him for his stances on abortion and religious freedom, appreciating his promises to appoint conservative judges and protect their religious liberties.
Following his conviction, Trump appeared on Fox & Friends Weekend, discussing the continued support from his Christian base. He expressed gratitude, saying, “I do great with the evangelical voters. I love evangelicals. I have more people telling me they pray to god for me, and it’s incredible. They are so committed and believing. They say, ‘Sir, you’re going to be OK. I pray for regularly.'”
Trump added, “Religion is very valuable. It keeps you—you know, there’s something to be good about. You want to be good.”
