Hegseth criticizes ‘godless’ left at Christian media convention
The Hill
by Ellen MitchellFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a strong critique of what he described as the "godless" left and foreign ideologies during his keynote address at the Christian communicators conference in Nashville, Tenn. Speaking Thursday night, Hegseth emphasized the importance of preserving "Western Christian" ideas and traditions, calling for an end to what he characterized as divisive policies such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, gender-bending equity quotas, and climate change activism. He framed these issues as threats to religious and cultural values, asserting that they undermine American identity and national security.
Hegseth's remarks reflect a broader cultural and political divide in the U.S., particularly within conservative Christian circles, where concerns about secularism and cultural change often intersect with political ideology. His speech also aligns with recent efforts by some members of the administration to promote a narrative that positions "Western values" as under threat from both domestic progressive movements and global influences. This approach often ties into discussions about immigration, education policies, and social justice reforms.
The event highlights the growing role of faith-based rhetoric in political discourse, especially within Republican circles. Hegseth's comments were met with applause from the audience, suggesting a resonance among attendees who view such messaging as a defense against what they perceive as encroaching secularism and cultural transformation. The speech underscores the ongoing tension between traditional religious values and modern societal shifts, particularly in areas like LGBTQ+ rights, environmental policies, and racial equity.
For readers interested in politics, this summary matters because it illustrates how faith-based arguments are being weaponized in political debates, often shaping policy discussions and public opinion. Such rhetoric can influence voter sentiment, particularly among conservative Christian constituencies, and may impact the direction of future government actions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for grasping the motivations behind certain political stances and their implications on American society.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026