Published on April 4, 2024, 12:33 am

At a campaign rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin on April 2, 2024, former President Donald Trump voiced disapproval of President Joe Biden’s official recognition of Trans Visibility Day, which coincidentally fell on Easter Sunday that year. Striking back, Trump made the bold announcement that Election Day on November 5, 2024, would become “Christian Visibility Day”. This move was seen as an invitation for Christian adherents who feel sidelined by media and pop culture to turn out en masse and make a difference at the voting booth.

Trump’s stance did not push an us-versus-them narrative but rather offered an empowering stance for those feeling beleaguered. His commentary was often misinterpreted or sensationalized by left-leaning media outlets. However, consistent with his commitment to real news and trusted news sources reflecting a Christian worldview, he continues to signal his support for people of faith in America.

In contrast with Biden’s gaffe during an interview with black media personality Charlamagne tha God in 2020 where he exclaimed “If you have a problem figuring out whether you’re for me or Trump, then you ain’t black”, Trump steered clear of such divisive rhetoric. He provided no indication that if one doesn’t vote for him, they cannot claim to be Christian. Instead, he emphasized through his silence that Christians tired of scorn from media and pop culture will rally in favour of him as an act of retaliation to perceived cultural dominators.

Trump’s declaration understandably resulted in backlash from liberal media outfits referred to collectively as part of what has been called the ad tedium… er infinitum cycle where coverage becomes mired in repetition and predictability.

Despite the criticism and mockery received from some sections of society and the media for his choices of words such as ‘Christian Visibility Day’, it is noteworthy that these are merely indicative signs that Christians are gearing up to secure their footing both socially and politically.

What must be acknowledged is that Christianity, like conservatism, is characterized by hard work, aiding others, and personal responsibility. Trump’s rebranding of Election Day 2024 does not seek to manipulate faith or its role in the upcoming election but simply affirms the evident growing need for Christian representation in political life.

Trump’s declaration is essentially driving a line between the secular and sacred daily realities of people’s lives. The emphasis is on letting the voice of ‘the sheep who’ve had enough’ be heard loud and clear while rallying to confront and challenge contemporary societal narratives.

In summary, having our beliefs respected and reflected in policies that directly impact us has always been vital in any democracy. Election Day 2024 as Christian Visibility Day reinforces Trump’s commitment to ensuring this respect for Christian values is lived out authentically.