It’s no secret that Donald Trump has continuously exploited his supporters with endless schemes, ranging from NFTs to now, Bibles. The latest controversy surrounding the Trump-backed Bible in Oklahoma is just one example of how grift has become intertwined with both politics and religion.

A Public Education Fund for Private Gain?

Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters’ decision to spend $3 million of state funds on 55,000 Bibles designed to meet oddly specific criteria—including the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence—feels eerily like a ploy to enrich Donald Trump. As the bidding process moves forward, all signs point to Trump’s “God Bless the USA” Bible being the only one that fits the bill. Walters, while claiming this is an effort to fight “woke ideology,” is sparking outrage among civil rights groups and former Attorney General Drew Edmondson, who pointed out the glaring issues of fairness in the bidding process. The scheme seems tailor-made to direct state resources into the hands of Trump—just as Oklahoma faces more urgent educational needs like emergency inhalers for children with asthma.

And let’s not forget Brett Favre. Favre’s welfare scandal, where millions were misused in one of the poorest states in the country, echoes this issue. Both figures stand accused of exploiting public systems for personal gain, and though their crimes differ, the exploitation of public trust feels uncomfortably similar. To call them ‘grifters’ barely scratches the surface. What we are witnessing are systemic abuses of power that go well beyond a simple label.

Faith as a Tool for Political Manipulation

The Trump Bible isn’t just about financial gain. It’s about using religion as a tool to solidify his base. Trump’s strategic use of Christian nationalism has been well-documented, and this Bible scheme is just another way to reinforce the cult-like devotion of his supporters. We see this in Oklahoma, where public funds are being funneled into what critics call an unconstitutional violation of church and state.

The hypocrisy of it all is glaring. As Pastor James Talarico’s sermon on Christian nationalism warns, this movement has nothing to do with true faith. Talarico preaches: “Christian nationalism is the worship of power…and it is a betrayal of Jesus of Nazareth.” This movement seeks not to spread love and peace but to dominate, to exclude, and to control—twisting Christianity into something unrecognizable from its roots. Trump’s manipulation of this ideology has created a divide that warps faith into a political weapon.

Pastoral Criticism of the Trump Bible

Meanwhile, other religious leaders are speaking out against this manipulation. Pastor Michael Way’s sermon, featured in NowThis Impact’s video, is especially damning, calling Trump’s Bible “blasphemous” and “a ploy.” As Pastor Way points out: “The gospel is not an American gospel, it is the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.” His strong words cut through the noise, reminding us that true faith is not about mixing politics with religion, nor is it about aligning with earthly power for personal gain.

References for Further Investigation

For those looking to delve deeper into these disturbing trends, I encourage you to explore the following sources:

• NowThis Impact. (2024, October 6). This Pastor Is Not a Fan of the Trump Bible. [YouTube Video]. Watch here.
• Talarico, J. (2023, May 3). James Talarico Delivers Sermon Against Christian Nationalism. [YouTube Video]. Watch here.
• CBN News. (2024). Critics Blast ‘Blasphemous’ Religious Imagery on the 2024 Campaign Trail. [YouTube Video].
• CNN. (2024, October 4). Oklahoma GOP Blesses Trump-backed Bibles. [YouTube Video]. Watch here.
• Secular Talk. (2024). WATCH: Trump’s Disturbing New Bible Scam Exposed | The Kyle Kulinski Show. [YouTube Video]. Watch here.
• NowThis Impact. (2024). Trump Bibles Could Be Taught in Oklahoma’s Public Schools. [YouTube Video]. Watch here.

Stay Vigilant and Informed

The grift we see unfolding with Trump’s Bible isn’t just a standalone issue—it’s a symptom of a larger, more dangerous trend. Leaders who manipulate faith for personal and political gain erode the very values they claim to uphold. It’s crucial, now more than ever, to remain vigilant, informed, and engaged.

As we approach the upcoming elections, I urge you to critically evaluate those seeking power, especially those who mix religion with political manipulation. Our democracy thrives on informed citizens who hold their leaders accountable. Let’s demand better from those who seek to lead us, and let’s ensure that our votes reflect a commitment to truth, fairness, and integrity.

Get Involved: Research your local candidates, stay up to date on the issues that matter, and, most importantly, make sure you’re registered to vote. If you’re unsure, take a moment to verify your voter registration status now—our future depends on it. Visit Can I Vote for more information.