Former President Donald Trump made a striking promise to attendees at a conservative Christian event on Friday night, asserting that they “won’t have to vote anymore” if he is elected to office in November. Trump urged Christians to participate in the election “just this time” to secure a landslide victory, which he claimed would be “too big to rig.”
The event, The Believers’ Summit, hosted by the conservative advocacy group Turning Point Action, took place in West Palm Beach, Florida. Trump, who is the Republican Party’s candidate for president, used the platform to emphasize the importance of Christian voters in the upcoming election.
“Christians, get out and vote. Just this time,” Trump passionately implored. “You won’t have to do it anymore. Four more years. You know what? It’ll be fixed. It’ll be fine. You won’t have to vote anymore, my beautiful Christians.”
Trump continued, “I love you Christians, and I’m a Christian. I love you, but you got to get out and vote. In four years, you don’t have to vote again. We’ll have it fixed so good, you’re not going to have to vote.”
These comments quickly sparked a wave of concern and criticism on social media. Many interpreted Trump’s statements as hinting at authoritarianism and suggesting he might not relinquish power if he wins the election.
Allison Gill, host of the podcast “Jack,” voiced her alarm on social media, posting, “Democracy is in danger. This is not a drill,” accompanied by an image highlighting Trump’s message to Christians.
Several commentators noted the potential implications of Trump’s remarks, suggesting they could undermine democratic processes. Some pointed out that such rhetoric could discourage voter participation or suggest a desire to alter or dismantle established electoral systems.
Political analysts weighed in, expressing varying degrees of concern. Some saw Trump’s comments as typical campaign hyperbole aimed at energizing his base, while others feared they reflected a more sinister intent to consolidate power and erode democratic norms.
The Believers’ Summit itself was a high-profile gathering, attracting numerous conservative Christian leaders and activists. Trump’s speech was one of the most anticipated events of the summit, and his comments about voting were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
In his broader speech, Trump reiterated his commitment to Christian values and policies, promising to protect religious freedoms and continue his administration’s work in appointing conservative judges. He also criticized his political opponents, accusing them of trying to undermine Christian values and freedoms.
As the 2024 election approaches, Trump’s remarks at The Believers’ Summit are likely to be a focal point of debate and discussion, highlighting the ongoing tension between his campaign and concerns about the future of American democracy.