Who can tame Trump? An unlikely candidate is emerging: the Catholic church | Simon Tisdall
In a politically charged landscape, the battle for civil rights, immigration reform, and economic equality has taken center stage, particularly among various Christian denominations. As the United States grapples with profound systemic issues, many churches have emerged as vocal advocates for social justice, challenging the status quo and calling for urgent reforms. The article highlights how these religious communities are positioning themselves as moral leaders in the face of rising inequality and divisive immigration policies, emphasizing their commitment to uphold the dignity and rights of marginalized populations. This movement is not just about spiritual guidance; it represents a broader struggle for justice that resonates deeply with the teachings of many faith traditions.
The political context surrounding these issues is fraught with tension. With a Supreme Court that is perceived as heavily influenced by conservative ideologies and a Congress that seems paralyzed by partisan divides, the article argues that traditional checks and balances are failing to curb the growing influence of populist leaders like Donald Trump. The author, Simon Tisdall, points out that both Republicans and Democrats appear unable or unwilling to challenge the erosion of democratic norms and civil liberties. Instead, the responsibility to confront these challenges increasingly falls on the shoulders of civil society and religious organizations. As the midterm elections approach, there is a glimmer of hope that voters may push back against these trends, as evidenced by recent electoral outcomes in New York and other areas. However, Tisdall warns that the urgency of the situation demands immediate action, not just electoral responses.
The article ultimately underscores the critical role that faith-based organizations can play in advocating for justice and equality. As they mobilize their congregations and communities, these churches not only address immediate social issues but also strive to inspire a broader movement for change. Their efforts to promote civil rights and support immigrants reflect a deep-seated belief in the inherent worth of every individual, challenging both political leaders and the public to reconsider their priorities. In a time when democracy appears to be under siege, the call for moral leadership from faith communities may be one of the most vital responses to the ongoing crisis facing the nation.
Inequality, immigration and civil rights are the battlegrounds on which the church, and some other Christian denominations, are fighting
The
supreme court can’t do it
– it’s packed with conservatives who owe him their jobs. Congress won’t do it – Republicans slavishly follow his orders, Democrats are ill-led and divided. For today’s White House, the concept of constitutional limits on executive power is a quaint relic. The news media, or sections of it, does its best amid constant legal threats. But, too often,
they pay him off
. Brave reporters who insist on asking awkward questions are insulted or silenced: “
Quiet, piggy.
”
So who will tame Donald Trump? Who will halt his rolling constitutional coup – his ongoing
evisceration of US democracy
, civil rights, living standards, global reputation and moral integrity? Voters may try to indirectly rein him back in next November’s midterms (as they did
recently in New York
and elsewhere). But those elections are a year away. The emergency is today.
Simon Tisdall is a Guardian foreign affairs commentator
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