In a recent letter to the editor, John Wiercinski from Dickson City articulated concerns regarding the apparent disconnect between the principles of Christianity and the political ideology associated with the MAGA movement. Wiercinski expressed confusion over how individuals who identify as MAGA Christians reconcile their faith, which emphasizes love, acceptance, and care for marginalized groups, with support for policies perceived as cruel and exclusionary.
Wiercinski pointed to specific policies enacted during the presidency of Donald Trump that he argues have negatively impacted vulnerable populations, including immigrants, the LGBT community, and individuals with disabilities. He questioned how these supporters can align their Christian values, particularly during the Christmas season, with political actions that seem to contradict the teachings of Jesus.
He introduced the concepts of “Vertical Morality” and “Horizontal Morality” to explain this disconnect. According to Wiercinski, Vertical Morality relies on authority figures—such as political leaders—who dictate moral behavior. He suggests that this form of morality can lead followers to act out of obedience rather than genuine compassion or empathy. This contrasts with Horizontal Morality, which emphasizes interpersonal relationships and the understanding that actions have consequences on others.
In Wiercinski’s view, the challenge lies in helping fellow MAGA Christians recognize this distinction. He believes that fostering a deeper understanding of empathy and compassion could bridge the gap between their political beliefs and Christian teachings. By encouraging dialogue around these moral frameworks, he hopes to inspire a more consistent application of Christian values in both personal and political contexts.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the intersection of faith and politics remains a critical topic for discussion. Wiercinski’s reflections encourage a broader conversation about how values shape beliefs and actions within the context of contemporary issues.
