By Nathan Richardson*
In recent years, the political landscape in the U.S. has seen a marked shift toward religious extremism, particularly among right-wing factions. This shift is exemplified by Trump's rhetoric and policies that cater to evangelical Christians and other conservative religious groups. The embrace of religious nationalism is not merely a cultural phenomenon; it represents a calculated strategy by the Republican Party to consolidate power by appealing to a base that feels increasingly marginalized in a rapidly changing society.