A surprising and upsetting situation has emerged as a pastor linked to Trump’s Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, is now facing anger after saying he wants a Democratic candidate to die.
This man, who is supposed to be a spiritual leader, seems to have completely missed the meaning of the New Testament.
Brooks Potteiger, who is considered a key spiritual adviser to Hegseth, spoke on a podcast and targeted Texas Democrat James Talarico with words that go far beyond just politics—and into something much more dangerous.
He called Talarico a “demon,” a “snake,” and a “wolf.”
The conversation then turned even more alarming.
The podcast host, Joshua Haymes, said he prayed “that God kills” Talarico.
And Potteiger didn’t stop it. Instead, he agreed, adding, “We want him crucified with Christ.”
That’s far from the teachings of “turning the other cheek” or “loving your neighbor as yourself”!
A religious leader, connected to one of the most powerful officials in the U.S. government, is openly expressing ideas about the death of a political opponent.
This isn’t faith.
This isn’t a debate. This is extremism disguised as religion.
And it gets even worse.
This same pastor has been invited to the Pentagon to lead prayer services where he shares strong views about women, LGBTQ+ people, and how society should be structured.
Now, he’s also using language that dehumanizes political rivals and hints at possible violence.
Meanwhile, James Talarico—a rising Democratic leader and a seminary student—is promoting a different kind of Christianity: one that focuses on compassion, inclusion, and caring for those who are vulnerable.
That contrast is clear.
One side teaches empathy. The other talks about enemies who should be destroyed.
This is the kind of language that harms democracy, causes division, and goes against what’s acceptable in public life.
And the silence from those in power?
It’s incredibly loud.
Because when leaders surround themselves with voices like this and say nothing, it sends a message.
And it’s a dangerous one.
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