Former President Donald Trump recently reiterated his loyalty test to religious Americans, claiming that he can best protect their freedoms and preemptively blaming certain faiths in case he loses the presidential election. He stated that Jews and Catholics who vote for him pass the test, but those who don’t “need their head examined.” Trump also suggested that “Jewish people would have a lot to do with the loss” if he is defeated, prompting backlash from Jewish leaders like Rabbi Rick Jacobs, who called the remarks antisemitic and dangerous.
Experts in rhetoric, religious leaders, and academics have criticized Trump’s divisive and discriminatory rhetoric aimed at specific religious Americans who oppose him. Steven Millies, a public theology professor, emphasized that non-Jews should not publicly comment on what constitutes good Judaism and non-Catholics should not dictate good Catholicism. Trump’s campaign press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, responded by highlighting statements from Jewish supporters that painted Trump as a strong advocate for Israel compared to his Democratic opponents.
Trump’s recent remarks about Jewish and Catholic voters are seen as part of his usual divisive rhetoric that divides people into “us” versus “them.” Professor Matthew Boedy suggested that Trump has adopted spiritual warfare rhetoric, pitting anyone who opposes him as the enemy. This strategy is viewed as detrimental to democracy and religion. David Gibson from Fordham University noted that Trump’s attempt to position himself as a savior of Catholics and Jews could be seen as political insanity in past elections, but is accepted by many conservatives this time.
Jennifer Mercieca, a political rhetoric historian, highlighted that Trump’s strategy of demanding religious loyalty is dangerous and likened it to authoritarian personality cult behavior. His division of people based on religious identity has raised concerns about the impact on society. Despite his efforts to attract Jewish support, Trump’s divisive rhetoric has faced criticism from various corners of the Jewish community, including the American Jewish Committee and IfNotNow, an organization critical of Israeli policies.
Trump’s comments have met with both support and condemnation within the Jewish community, with some arguing that his remarks scapegoat Jews and others finding a positive spin on accepting blame for his potential loss. The attempt to blame Jews for his hypothetical defeat has drawn strong rebuke from religious leaders, academics, and organizations working to combat bigotry and promote understanding. The controversial rhetoric employed by Trump in his efforts to secure religious support has intensified as the election nears, sparking further debate and scrutiny.
