Published on December 18, 2023, 12:12 am

In a significant political shift in Oklahoma’s 32nd Senate District, businessman and pastor Dusty Deevers claimed victory in the recent special election. This pivotal electoral event sought to replace moderate Republican senator John Montgomery, who stepped down earlier to head the Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce. Deevers’ win is of particular note as he achieved an impressive 11-point edge over his democratic opponent Larry Bush.

Contrasting from Bush’s platform focused on education, criminal justice reform, healthcare accessibility, and economy management, Deevers ran his campaign rooted heavily in the application of Christian moral principles to governance. Self-identified as a “Christian Nationalist,” Deevers success rekindles arguments tied with religion and political office.

The founding fathers of America laid down the prohibit against establishment of religion by the government in the First Amendment. This amendment served to prevent any Christian denomination—particularly those associating themselves closely with England—from achieving national church status.

In current times however, various states still mandate belief in God for officeholders although religious tests were outlawed back in 1961 through Torcaso v. Watkins. According to many staunch proponents of the Christian Nationalist movement—including Dusty Deevers—several societal problems today can be traced back to excessive individualism and disordered liberty that sidesteps religious tenets.

Deever’s win echoes loudly his unwavering support for traditional marriage and abolishing abortion—he even intends to back laws that would allow charges against women seeking abortions—an opinion which has met with strong criticism within GOP itself. His other agendas include opposing no-fault divorces and attempting to abolish pornography displaying strong adherence to religious principles.

Not limiting himself to religious causes, Deevers also plans on bolstering “biblical economic principles”, advocating for limited governmental interference, free market competition, lower taxes along with reducing tax burdens on oil and gas companies. He has expressed hopes towards improving job opportunities and mental health resources for veterans.

His uncompromising stances, however, haven’t drawn unanimous support within the confines of his own religious order—the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). SBC president Ray Barber has vocally opposed Deever’s extreme anti-abortion views labeling them as abolitionist and drew criticism from him. In response to this, Barber apologized for his aggressive remarks.

In conclusion, Christian liberty in the context of governance doesn’t imply absolute liberty; instead, it calls for self-discipline in line with religious morality. Over recent years, America’s social fabric is experiencing strain due to fading recognition for its Christian roots. Therefore, preserving our foundational views becomes vital to ensure the nation’s sustenance through shifts and transitions guided by a unifying Christian worldview—real news that holds significant implications to governance principles across state elections.