Faithful Politics

Faithful Politics Podcast
  • 4.7 (44)
  • Politics
  • Weekly

Dive into the profound world of Faithful Politics, a compelling podcast where the spheres of faith and politics converge in meaningful dialogues. Guided by Pastor Josh Burtram (Faithful Host) and Will Wright (Political Host), this unique platform invites listeners to delve into the complex impact of political choices on both the faithful and faithless. Join our hosts, Josh and Will, as they engage with world-renowned experts, scholars, theologians, politicians, journalists, and ordinary folks. Their objective? To deepen our collective understanding of the intersection between faith and politics. Faithful Politics sets itself apart by refusing to subscribe to any single political ideology or religious conviction. This approach is mirrored in the diverse backgrounds of our hosts. Will Wright, a disabled Veteran and African-Asian American, is a former atheist and a liberal progressive with a lifelong intrigue in politics. On the other hand, Josh Burtram, a Conservative Republican and devoted Pastor, brings a passion for theology that resonates throughout the discourse. Yet, in the face of their contrasting outlooks, Josh and Will display a remarkable ability to facilitate respectful and civil dialogue on challenging topics. This opens up a space where listeners of various political and religious leanings can find value and deepen their understanding. So, regardless if you're a Democrat or Republican, a believer or an atheist, we assure you that Faithful Politics has insightful conversations that will appeal to you and stimulate your intellectual curiosity. Come join us in this enthralling exploration of the intricate nexus of faith and politics. Add us to your regular podcast stream and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Let's navigate this fascinating realm together!  Not Right. Not Left. UP.

  1. 13h ago

    Does the Supreme Court Favor Christians? Stephen Feldman on Religious Freedom

    Constitutional law scholar Stephen M. Feldman argues that the Roberts Court has changed the meaning of religious freedom and who fully belongs under the Constitution. Drawing from his book Who Belongs: White Christian Nationalism and the Roberts Court, Feldman traces the fight over “We the People” from the founding and Reconstruction through the New Deal, the Warren Court, and today's conservative Supreme Court. He explains how the constitutional shift beginning around 1937 helped expand protections for voting, free speech, and equal participation. We also examine originalism and its reliance on historical interpretations developed when many Americans were excluded from political participation. Feldman compares Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, involving a public school football coach's prayer, with Mahmoud v. Taylor, involving religious objections to LGBTQ+ inclusive classroom books. The discussion explores whether religious freedom is being applied consistently, how the Court's approach intersects with white Christian nationalism, and what these decisions mean for church-state separation and American democracy. Book Book: Who Belongs: White Christian Nationalism and the Roberts Court Author: Stephen M. Feldman Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781479841165 Guest Bio Stephen M. Feldman is a retired distinguished professor of law and adjunct professor of political science at the University of Wyoming, where he taught constitutional law and jurisprudence for more than two decades. His scholarship examines constitutional interpretation, democracy, religious liberty, and the relationship between law and politics. He is the author of Who Belongs: White Christian Nationalism and the Roberts Court and Pack the Court! A Defense of Supreme Court Expansion. Feldman retired in summer 2026 after four decades of teaching constitutional law. University profile: https://www.uwyo.edu/law/directory/step-feldman.html

  2. 3d ago

    She Survived Her Execution. Can the State Try Again? | Corinna Lain

    Law professor and former prosecutor Corinna Lain returns to Faithful Politics to examine two disturbing developments in America's death penalty system: the botched lethal injection of Christa Pike in Tennessee and the Trump administration's proposal to publicly livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan. Drawing on her book Secrets of the Killing State, Lain explains why lethal injections fail, how execution protocols leave room for serious mistakes, and why the Supreme Court has allowed states to attempt executions a second time. We also discuss firing squads, the constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment, and the political appeal of public executions. The conversation turns to a larger question about justice, redemption, and whether the death penalty serves any meaningful purpose. Lain also explains why, despite renewed political attention, capital punishment has been declining in the United States. Book: Secrets of the Killing State: The Untold Story of Lethal Injection: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781479832965 Author's book page: https://corinnalain.com/books/secrets-of-the-killing-state/ Bio: Corinna Barrett Lain is the George E. Allen Chair in Law at the University of Richmond School of Law, where she specializes in constitutional law, criminal procedure, and capital punishment. A former prosecutor and U.S. Army veteran, she is the author of Secrets of the Killing State: The Untold Story of Lethal Injection. Her research examines botched executions, government secrecy, and the constitutional limits of capital punishment. She has spent years investigating how executions are conducted and why lethal injection frequently fails to work as intended.

  3. Oct 27

    Why Christians Vote So Differently: Greg Smith on Trump and the Midterms

    Pew Research Center's Greg Smith joins Faithful Politics to explain why Christians who share similar religious beliefs often vote for opposing political parties. With the 2026 midterms approaching, we examine the differences between white evangelicals, Black Protestants, Catholics, and religiously unaffiliated voters, and what those differences could mean for the election. Smith also explains why many evangelicals support Donald Trump despite questioning his personal religious commitment, why the economy matters more to religious voters than abortion or LGBTQ issues, and what Americans think about churches endorsing political candidates. We also discuss a surprising finding: most Christians believe people can disagree about Trump and still be good Christians. Guest Bio: Gregory A. Smith is Senior Associate Director of Research at Pew Research Center, where he studies religion in American life and its relationship to politics. He has helped lead Pew's major Religious Landscape Studies and has conducted extensive research on religious identity, political affiliation, and public opinion. His work provides insight into how Americans' religious beliefs and practices intersect with voting behavior, political priorities, and changing demographic trends. These Pew Research Center resources directly support the topics discussed in the interview. Religious Groups Differ Widely in Their 2026 Midterm Preferences - Gregory A. Smith's October 13 research, including the 73% Republican preference among white evangelicals and 74% Democratic preference among Black Protestants.How Americans Feel About Religion's Influence in Government and Public Life - Research on religion in politics, Christian nationalism, and church involvement in elections.Most Americans Think Churches Should Not Endorse Political Candidates - Historical polling showing 79% opposition to church endorsements in 2026.

  4. Oct 24

    Are Our Elections Safer Than We Think? | Jessica Huseman

    Votebeat Editorial Director Jessica Huseman returns to Faithful Politics to discuss the security of America's elections andthe challenges facing voters and election officials ahead of the 2026 midterms. We examine concerns about federal interference at polling locations, voter registration problems in Texas, turmoil within Georgia's State Election Board, and allegations of widespread noncitizen voting. Despite growing public distrust, Jessica explains why election officials remain confident in the voting process and why many fears about election security exceed the actual risks. We also discuss misinformation, legal challenges, and why the biggest concerns may emerge after Election Day, when votes are counted and results are challenged. Check out what Votebeat has to offer: https://www.votebeat.org GUEST BIOJessica Huseman is the editorial director of Votebeat, a nonprofit newsroom focused exclusively on voting and election administration. She oversees reporting on election security, voting laws, voter registration, misinformation, and the challenges facing local election officials. Her newsroom investigates how election systems operate and helps journalists across the country access election experts through Votebeat's Election Expert Desk. A returning guest on Faithful Politics, Jessica brings detailed reporting and practical insight into the challenges facing American elections ahead of the 2026 midterms.

  5. Oct 20

    Is Trump Becoming the GOP's Biggest Liability? | Kyle Kondik

    Democrats are favored to take back the House in the 2026 midterm elections, but does that mean the country is becoming more Democratic? And could Republicans still hold on to the Senate? Kyle Kondik, Managing Editor of Sabato's Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, joins Faithful Politics to break down the congressional election map and explain why 2026 could be an especially difficult year for Republicans. We discuss Trump's declining approval ratings, the economic consequences of the Iran war, rising gas prices, and whether Republican efforts to redraw congressional districts will deliver the advantages they expected. Kondik also explains why Democrats face a much harder path to winning the Senate, which states could determine control of Congress, and why even a decisive Democratic victory may say little about the 2028 presidential election. We also examine the reliability of political polling, what early voting can and cannot tell us, and what voters should watch for on election night. GUEST BIO Kyle Kondik is Managing Editor of Sabato's Crystal Ball, the nonpartisan political analysis newsletter published by the University of Virginia Center for Politics. He also serves as the center's Director of Communications. Kondik specializes in American elections, congressional races, electoral history, and political forecasting. He is the author of The Long Red Thread, examining the Republican Party's electoral advantages in U.S. House elections, and The Bellwether, which explores Ohio's historical role in presidential elections. His analysis helps explain the electoral trends and competitive races shaping control of Congress.

  6. Oct 17

    Democrats Could Win Big, But Voters Still Don't Like Them | Jessica Taylor

    Republicans are facing a difficult 2026 midterm election, and even traditionally conservative states like Texas, Kansas, and Iowa are becoming competitive. But if Democrats win, will it be because voters support their agenda, or because Americans are increasingly frustrated with both political parties? Jessica Taylor, Senate and Governors Editor for The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, joins Faithful Politics to examine the races that could determine control of Congress and what is motivating voters heading into November. We discuss Trump's declining approval ratings, the economy, the war in Iran, immigration enforcement, and why some evangelical voters may be reconsidering their political loyalties. Taylor also explains why Democratic candidates like James Talarico in Texas and Pastor Adam Hamilton in Kansas are openly embracing their faith to reach voters traditionally aligned with Republicans. We also examine third-party candidates, redistricting, how Cook Political Report rates elections, and what the midterms could mean for the 2028 presidential race. Websitehttps://www.cookpolitical.com GUEST BIO Jessica Taylor is the Senate and Governors Editor for The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, where she analyzes congressional and gubernatorial elections across the country. Previously, she spent five years as a political reporter for NPR, covering presidential elections, Congress, and statewide races. Raised Southern Baptist in Tennessee, Taylor brings both political reporting experience and a personal understanding of conservative Christianity to her analysis of religious voters, the Republican Party, and the growing role of faith in Democratic campaigns.

  7. Oct 16

    What Made a Neo-Nazi Leader Abandon White Supremacy? | Jeff Schoep

    Jeff Schoep spent 27 years in the neo-Nazi movement, eventually becoming the leader of the National Socialist Movement, one of the largest white supremacist organizations in the United States. After decades of promoting an ideology built around racial hatred, Schoep began questioning his beliefs following a series of unexpected encounters with people he once considered enemies. Today, Schoep works to help others leave extremist organizations. He joins Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram to explain how he became radicalized, what kept him in the movement for so long, and the experiences that eventually led him to abandon white supremacy. The conversation covers his involvement in the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, his encounters with Black musician and activist Daryl Davis and filmmaker Deeyah Khan, and the personal consequences of walking away from an ideology that had shaped nearly every part of his life. We also explore why public humiliation and confrontation can sometimes drive people deeper into extremism, how online echo chambers reinforce radical beliefs, and why curiosity, empathy, and what Schoep calls "relational dialogue" can create opportunities for people to reconsider deeply held convictions. Schoep's experience also offers insight into America's growing political polarization and the challenges of reaching people whose beliefs have become central to their identity.BOOK Book: American Nazi: From Hate to Humanity Author: Jeff Schoep Bookshop.org: https://a.co/d/06c3LRde Schoep also discusses his forthcoming book, Exiting Extremism: The Redemption of an American Nazi Leader, which he expects to be published in early 2027. GUEST BIOJeff Schoep is the founder and president of Beyond Barriers, an organization that helps people disengage from extremist groups, gangs, and other destructive movements. He previously led the National Socialist Movement, one of America's most prominent neo-Nazi organizations, and was involved in the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville. After leaving the movement in 2019, Schoep publicly renounced white supremacist ideology and began working in extremism prevention and disengagement. He is the author of American Nazi: From Hate to Humanity, which documents his journey out of extremism.

  8. Oct 13

    Can Christians Confront Racism Without Choosing Sides? | Jonathan Tremaine Thomas

    Can America confront its history of racism and political division without forcing everyone to choose a side? Pastor, author, and Civil Righteousness founder Jonathan Tremaine Thomas joins Faithful Politics to discuss his book Make Straight the Path and his vision for what he calls "holy activism." Jonathan shares how the 2014 Ferguson protests following Michael Brown's death transformed his understanding of the church's responsibility in moments of racial conflict. He explains the "radical middle," a commitment to pursuing justice and reconciliation even when it means challenging your own political community. The conversation explores the similarities between the devotion surrounding Barack Obama and Donald Trump, Martin Luther King Jr.'s spiritual approach to nonviolent resistance, and the warning of Isaiah 58 about religious devotion without justice. Jonathan also makes the case for an American truth and reconciliation process, drawing lessons from Rwanda, South Africa, and Canada. He explains why acknowledging historical injustice, building relationships across political divisions, and taking responsibility for repairing communities are essential to meaningful reconciliation. BOOKBook: Make Straight the Path Author: Jonathan Tremaine Thomas Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781400256754 GUEST BIO Jonathan Tremaine Thomas is a pastor, activist, author, and executive director of Civil Righteousness, an organization focused on racial reconciliation, community renewal, and faith based engagement. His work was shaped by his experience during the 2014 Ferguson protests following the death of Michael Brown. He advocates for what he calls "holy activism," bringing spiritual conviction into efforts to address injustice and political division. His book Make Straight the Pathexplores reconciliation, the radical middle, and the responsibility of Christians to help repair divided communities.

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4.7
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About

Dive into the profound world of Faithful Politics, a compelling podcast where the spheres of faith and politics converge in meaningful dialogues. Guided by Pastor Josh Burtram (Faithful Host) and Will Wright (Political Host), this unique platform invites listeners to delve into the complex impact of political choices on both the faithful and faithless. Join our hosts, Josh and Will, as they engage with world-renowned experts, scholars, theologians, politicians, journalists, and ordinary folks. Their objective? To deepen our collective understanding of the intersection between faith and politics. Faithful Politics sets itself apart by refusing to subscribe to any single political ideology or religious conviction. This approach is mirrored in the diverse backgrounds of our hosts. Will Wright, a disabled Veteran and African-Asian American, is a former atheist and a liberal progressive with a lifelong intrigue in politics. On the other hand, Josh Burtram, a Conservative Republican and devoted Pastor, brings a passion for theology that resonates throughout the discourse. Yet, in the face of their contrasting outlooks, Josh and Will display a remarkable ability to facilitate respectful and civil dialogue on challenging topics. This opens up a space where listeners of various political and religious leanings can find value and deepen their understanding. So, regardless if you're a Democrat or Republican, a believer or an atheist, we assure you that Faithful Politics has insightful conversations that will appeal to you and stimulate your intellectual curiosity. Come join us in this enthralling exploration of the intricate nexus of faith and politics. Add us to your regular podcast stream and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Let's navigate this fascinating realm together!  Not Right. Not Left. UP.

Information

  • Creator
    Faithful Politics Podcast
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    541
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Faithful Politics Podcast
  • Show Website
    Faithful Politics

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