Cracks in Trump's MAGA Coalition Over Religious Issues

Dec 24, 2025, 2:46 AM
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Donald Trump's MAGA coalition is showing signs of strain, particularly over issues related to religion and immigration. As Trump's administration continues to push policies that many religious leaders deem inhumane, a growing number of voices within the Christian community are beginning to push back against the MAGA agenda.
One of the most notable sources of dissent comes from the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has been vocal in his criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies, which he describes as "extremely disrespectful." He has called for the humane treatment of undocumented immigrants, a stance that has been echoed by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, which condemned the administration's approach to mass deportations and dehumanizing rhetoric.
This pushback is not limited to Catholicism. The Episcopal Church has also expressed its discontent, particularly regarding the treatment of immigrants. The church has urged the government to exercise mercy and compassion, especially towards vulnerable populations. In a significant move, the Episcopal Church ended its long-standing refugee resettlement partnership with the government, citing a commitment to racial justice as a moral imperative.
The Southern Baptist Convention, a major evangelical group, has also found itself at a crossroads. While it previously supported more humane immigration policies, recent conventions have seen a marked shift away from addressing immigration issues altogether. Many local pastors are caught in a dilemma, torn between their commitment to their congregations and the fear of alienating conservative members who support Trump's hardline stance.
This internal conflict within the evangelical community is particularly concerning given the demographic shifts in American Christianity. Latinos represent the fastest-growing group of American evangelicals, and many of them supported Trump in the 2024 election. However, the administration's aggressive immigration policies may alienate this crucial demographic, raising questions about the long-term viability of the MAGA coalition.
The fractures within the MAGA coalition are further exacerbated by Trump's declining approval ratings and the emergence of dissenting voices within the Republican Party. As Trump's influence wanes, more Republicans are willing to break ranks, a stark contrast to the previously unwavering loyalty seen during his first term.
Moreover, the ongoing scandals surrounding Trump, including his connections to Jeffrey Epstein, have begun to alienate core supporters. This has led to a reevaluation of loyalty among some factions of the MAGA movement, with figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene publicly breaking with Trump over these issues.
The schism within the MAGA coalition reflects a broader societal divide in the United States, where many Americans are grappling with the concept of "simple human decency." This divide is evident in the contrasting views on immigration and the treatment of marginalized communities, which many religious leaders argue are fundamental to Christian teachings.
As the 2026 midterms approach, the implications of these internal conflicts could be significant. The MAGA coalition, once seen as a monolithic force, is now facing challenges that could reshape its future. The question remains whether Trump can navigate these cracks in his coalition or if they will lead to a more profound realignment within the Republican Party.
In conclusion, the growing dissent among religious leaders and the shifting demographics within evangelical communities signal a potential crisis for Trump's MAGA coalition. As these issues come to the forefront, the future of the coalition may depend on its ability to reconcile its policies with the values espoused by many of its supporters.

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