Donald Trump Faces Backlash from Christian Conservatives Over Abortion Stance
ICARO Media Group
In a recent video statement, former President Donald Trump sparked controversy among some conservative Christian activists with his comments on the issue of abortion. Trump suggested that the decision should be left to individual states, as he spoke out against an Arizona Supreme Court ruling that reinstated a near-total abortion ban established in 1864.
These remarks did not sit well with some Christian conservatives, who took to social media to express their discontent. Ben Zeisloft, editor of The Republic Sentinel, criticized Trump, stating that he would not vote for him unless there was a significant change. Zeisloft argued that Trump's refusal to use federal power to protect all human lives was "unacceptable and depraved," urging him to "reverse course on this wicked trajectory."
Similarly, Josh Daws, host of "The Great Awokening" podcast, believed that Trump's stance on abortion miscalculated the loyalty and support of his evangelical voting bloc. Daws suggested that the presumptive Republican presidential nominee had overestimated how secure his evangelical base was.
The issue of abortion has proven challenging for Trump, particularly since the Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling in June 2022, a decision he took credit for. Attempts to restrict abortion access in various states have encountered resistance from voters, and the topic was widely associated with the Republicans' underperformance in the 2022 midterm elections.
The backlash against Trump's abortion stance reflects a growing divide among conservative Christians. Some critics, like Christian talk show host Steve Deace, expressed disappointment that Republicans, including Trump, have failed to act on their pro-life speeches and promises. Deace remarked that both parties seemed reluctant to address the issue of abortion effectively.
Former Trump campaign staffer Lizzie Marbach emphasized the primacy of Christ over any political figure, stating that when Trump crosses certain lines and "spits on God," he should be called out. Nathan Barnes, co-founder of conservative news website The Sentinel, claimed that Trump and his allies were highlighting how both Republican and Democratic parties only differed in their approach to abortion, rather than the fundamental belief that it is murder.
Donald Trump's niece, Mary Trump, also voiced her criticism of his abortion stance on her blog. She argued that by advocating for states to make decisions on abortion, Trump had managed to upset both the right, who desire a national ban, and independents, who oppose states banning abortion.
Newsweek reached out to representatives of Trump's 2024 presidential election campaign for comment but received no response at the time of writing.
The backlash over Trump's abortion remarks underscores the deep divisions within the conservative Christian community. As the 2024 presidential race edges closer, it remains to be seen how Trump will navigate this controversy and maintain his support among Christian conservatives.