At the 2025 National Conservatism Conference (NatCon), a surprising alliance emerged: conservative Jews aligning with Christian nationalists to champion the idea of America’s Christian roots. Josh Hammer, the only Jewish panelist at a session on “Bible and American Renewal,” openly declared, “America was founded as a Christian country.” His statement underscored a broader dynamic at play — efforts to unite religious conservatives under a shared vision for a faith-based American identity.
Efforts to Build a Cross-Faith Conservative Coalition
The conference, held in Washington, D.C., featured prominent figures from the Trump era, including Steve Bannon, Kelly Loeffler, and Russell Vought. As NatCon shifts from fringe to influential, organizers are trying to solidify a right-wing coalition that includes Catholics, Protestants, and Orthodox Jews. Yoram Hazony, the Jewish chair of the Edmund Burke Foundation, expressed concern about rising antisemitism on the right, especially post–October 7 attacks in Israel. Still, he urged for “honorable conversation” on Christian-Jewish relations and defended Judeo-Christian unity.
Judeo-Christian Values as a Unifying Narrative
Despite theological differences, speakers repeatedly invoked “Judeo-Christian values” as the ideological backbone of American identity. Vought praised America’s founding on Judeo-Christian worldviews. Southern Baptist Albert Mohler proposed a conservatism rooted in shared reverence for biblical figures. Hammer and others echoed this view, framing it as a unifying moral vision for the movement.
Muslim Americans Targeted as Political Focal Point
While most speakers openly denounced antisemitism, anti-Muslim rhetoric took center stage. Multiple panelists singled out Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim mayoral candidate in New York City, as emblematic of perceived threats to American identity. Bannon labeled Mamdani a “jihadist,” suggesting the danger to Jews and America comes from within. Pastor Doug Wilson argued that while America adapted to Catholics and Jews, Muslim immigration threatens assimilation and national cohesion.
Critics Warn of Fractures and Exclusion
Supporters argue that shared conservative principles can unite Christians and Jews. However, detractors warn that emphasizing Christian nationalism alienates both Muslims and religious minorities. Hazony’s call to avoid antisemitism highlights lingering fears about exclusion even within the movement. Critics also question whether the anti-Muslim focus will truly sustain NatCon’s fragile coalition.
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At NatCon, An Effort To Make Christian Nationalism A More Inclusive Movement
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